Fresh Drama in Tinubu Coup Trial as Court Orders Investigation of VeryDarkMan
Fresh controversy has erupted in the ongoing trial of six men accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday ordered an investigation into social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, over allegations that materials connected to the case were leaked online.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to probe allegations that video materials connected to the high-profile case were leaked and circulated online.
The development followed complaints by lead prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), who informed the court that portions of evidence related to the trial had allegedly appeared on social media.
According to him, the footage was reportedly shared by VeryDarkMan, who was present in court during proceedings.
Oyedepo urged the court to determine how the sensitive materials found their way into the public domain, especially given existing measures aimed at protecting witnesses involved in the case.
In response, Justice Abdulmalik ordered the DSS to investigate the source of the alleged leak and take action if the publication violated any witness protection directives previously issued by the court.
Defence lawyers representing the six defendants denied any involvement in the matter.
Some of them argued that the prosecution should file a formal application backed by an affidavit before expecting a detailed response from the defence team.
The court subsequently proceeded with arguments on the defendants’ bail applications. While defence counsel appealed for their release on liberal terms, the prosecution opposed the requests and urged the court to deny bail.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned proceedings to allow the defendants continue their defence in the ongoing trial-within-trial.
The first set of defendants is expected to continue on June 25 and June 30, while the remaining defendants will take their turn on July 1 and July 2.
The court fixed July 20 for its ruling on the bail applications.
Earlier during the hearing, a prosecution witness identified only as “DDD” rejected claims that the defendants were tortured while in custody.
He maintained that their statements were obtained voluntarily and denied allegations that they were restrained with chains during interrogation.
The witness argued that if chains had been used, such details would have been evident in video recordings already presented before the court.
The trial continues as the DSS begins its investigation into the alleged circulation of court materials linked to the coup plot case.
