The Federal Government has arraigned a group of individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the government, slamming them with a 13-count charge bordering on treason.
The suspects were brought before a Federal High Court amid tight security, where prosecutors outlined allegations that they conspired to undermine the authority of the state through actions considered a direct threat to national stability.
According to the charge sheet, the accused persons are alleged to have engaged in activities aimed at orchestrating an unconstitutional change of government. The offences, the prosecution said, contravene provisions of Nigeria’s criminal laws relating to treason and national security.
All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read in court.
Counsel to the accused persons urged the court to grant bail on liberal terms, arguing that the defendants are law-abiding citizens who would not jump bail. However, the prosecution opposed the application, insisting that the gravity of the allegations and the potential threat to public safety warranted their continued detention.
The trial judge adjourned proceedings to a later date for the hearing of bail applications and ordered that the defendants be remanded in custody pending further proceedings.
The case is expected to draw significant public attention as it unfolds, given the serious nature of the charges and their implications for national security.
