AfriPulse
Families of military officers standing trial over an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu are set to protest at the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja today.
Naija News reports that the families said the demonstration was to demand transparency in the handling of the case and access to their detained relatives.
One of the wives of the detained officers confirmed the planned protest to Punch, saying affected families had resolved to make their grievances known.
The woman said the protest would be peaceful and would take place at the Ministry of Justice.
She said, “Yes, it is true. We are embarking on a demonstration on Monday (today) on behalf of the families of the detained military officers still in detention.
“The peaceful protest is to take place at the Ministry of Justice. We would appreciate it if you (media) could also join us.”
The families have repeatedly complained that the officers have been held for more than 160 days without trial in open court or access to legal representation.
They said the situation had caused severe emotional and psychological distress in their homes.
The planned protest follows earlier demonstrations by the families, who have continued to demand either the release of the officers or their immediate arraignment in a transparent court process.
The development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings linked to the alleged coup plot. Several suspects are facing charges, including treason, terrorism, money laundering and failure to disclose information.
Naija News reports that some of the defendants have pleaded not guilty.
A few weeks ago, proceedings involving some of the accused officers drew controversy after journalists were barred from covering a bail hearing involving six of the suspects.
Court officials, backed by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), reportedly ordered journalists out of the courtroom shortly before proceedings began.
The case followed arrests made in connection with the alleged coup plot.
Authorities had earlier confirmed that dozens of suspects, including serving and retired military officers and civilians, were arrested.
While some serving officers have been arraigned before a court martial in Abuja, others are facing trial in civilian courts.
Source: Naijanews.com | Read the Full Story…
