The Federal Government on Wednesday arraigned a retired army general and five others before the Federal High Court in Abuja over an alleged failed coup targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The six defendants pleaded not guilty to a 13-count charge during proceedings presided over by Joyce Abdulmalik.

Those standing trial include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana and retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor. Others are Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

Following their pleas, Justice Abdulmalik ordered an accelerated hearing of the case and fixed April 27 for the hearing of their bail applications.

Five of the defendants were produced in court by operatives of the State Security Service and were remanded in custody pending the determination of their bail applications. However, Abdulkadir Sani, who had earlier been granted unconditional release by the court, appeared in person.

The proceedings, which commenced around 1:40 p.m., attracted significant public attention as the high-profile trial got underway.