Court grants protection for witness in coup plot trial
Bola Tinubu is at the center of an ongoing coup plot trial involving six accused individuals. The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved protective measures for a prosecution witness, citing security risks. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled in favor of shielding the witness after hearing arguments from both prosecution and defense. The court aims to balance national security with the defendants’ rights to a fair hearing.
What happened
- The Federal Government requested that a prosecution witness, a serving officer, be shielded during the trial of six people accused of plotting a coup against Bola Tinubu.
- Justice Joyce Abdulmalik granted the request, citing security concerns and referencing Section 232 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
- The defense did not oppose protective measures in principle but argued that full anonymity could undermine the defendants’ right to a fair hearing.
- Three bank officials testified and presented documents obtained from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, which were admitted as evidence.
- The judge ordered that the witness’s identity be concealed from court records and public proceedings, and a protective screen was set up before testimony began.
