Court admits statements of alleged coup plotters, rejects torture claims

On Thursday, the Federal High Court in Abuja scheduled December 7, 2026 for the trial of six alleged coup plotters arrested following the botched coup attempt. The court dismissed the defendants' objections to the admission of their statements and video recordings taken during interrogations by military and DSS officials. The defendants, including retired Major General Mohammed Gana and retired Navy Capt.

Erasmus Victor, were accused of plotting to violently overthrow the President Bola Tinubu-led government. They were charged with 13 counts ranging from treason and terrorism to money laundering linked to terrorism financing. Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the statements and video recordings were made voluntarily and did not involve any duress or coercion, dismissing the defendants' claims. The court will continue the trial on December 7 and 10.