FG arraigns six suspects, including retired officers, over 13-count terrorism charges linked to alleged plot against the Nigerian state
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday became the centre of a major national security case as the Federal Government arraigned six individuals on a 13-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism and treason against the Nigerian state.
Also read: Ekiti PDP candidate blasts Oyebanji over governance failure
The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Victor, a serving police inspector and three other accused persons, while former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva was also named in the charge sheet but is currently at large.
The Nigeria terrorism 13-count charge arraignment was filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, alleging that the defendants conspired in 2025 to wage war against the state with the aim of undermining the authority of the presidency.
The prosecution, led by Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), described the case as a serious threat to national security and urged the court to fast-track proceedings.
Court proceedings briefly faced delays earlier in the day due to procedural issues, including the absence of defence counsel for one defendant who was reportedly ill, and language barriers affecting another accused person who required interpretation from Arabic and Hausa.
The court was temporarily stood down to provide a qualified interpreter, ensuring that all defendants fully understood the charges against them before proceedings continued.
When the hearing resumed, the atmosphere was tense as the 13 counts were read out in court. All six defendants pleaded not guilty to each charge.
Although full details of the charges remain under the strict provisions of Nigeria’s terrorism laws, the case falls under the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act.
Following the pleas, the prosecution moved for an accelerated hearing, citing national security concerns and the need for swift judicial determination.
While defence lawyers indicated plans to challenge the case further, they did not oppose the request for an expedited trial, although bail arguments are expected at the next sitting.
Also read: Ekiti PDP candidate blasts Oyebanji over governance failure
The case is widely regarded as one of the most significant security-related prosecutions in recent years, drawing attention due to the involvement of senior retired military officers and a former federal minister.
