Tension has reportedly erupted during ongoing military tribunal proceedings in Abuja involving individuals accused of plotting a coup, after civilian defence lawyers rejected a directive requiring them to appear in wigs and gowns in court.
According to sources familiar with the proceedings, the dispute arose inside a restricted military facility where the trial is being conducted away from public access, with lawyers arguing that the tribunal had no authority to impose such a dress code in what they described as a sensitive and unusual trial involving civilians.
The legal team reportedly objected to the instruction, insisting that the requirement was arbitrary and could undermine the rights of the defendants facing serious constitutional allegations.
The confrontation escalated after tribunal officials allegedly threatened to remove the lawyers from the courtroom if they failed to comply, but the defence team maintained its refusal, leading to a standoff inside the venue.
The trial is part of ongoing proceedings involving alleged coup plotters, currently being handled within a military setting in the Federal Capital Territory.
In related proceedings at the Federal High Court of Nigeria in Abuja, a video recording of one of the defendants, Sheikh Sani Abdulkadir, was played in court during the continued prosecution of the case.
In the recording, the cleric reportedly admitted receiving money linked to prayers for the alleged operation while claiming he warned those involved that the plan would fail.
He also stated that he was introduced to the alleged ringleader through an intermediary and had known him for less than a year.
The prosecution continues to present evidence, including witness testimony and recorded statements, as it builds its case against the defendants accused of conspiracy to overthrow the government.
