Families of detained coup suspects hold peaceful protests in Abuja, demand public hearing

Relatives and supporters of military personnel currently facing trial over an alleged coup conspiracy on Monday gathered in Abuja to demand a transparent judicial process and the release of those in custody.

The demonstrators assembled at the Federal Ministry of Justice, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as they called on the Federal Government to allow open proceedings and grant the suspects fair treatment.

Among the messages displayed on banners were calls for the release of the accused officers and an end to what protesters described as an unfair military trial process.

Security operatives, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force, were stationed at the venue and restricted the group to the entrance of the ministry, preventing them from entering the premises.

Speaking during the protest, one of the organisers, Justice Isimili, said many of those present had travelled from different states across the country to express concern over the continued detention of their loved ones.

“Several people here today are wives, children, brothers, and relatives of those being held. Some came all the way from Jos, Kano, and Sokoto because they believe their family members deserve justice,” he said.

He appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter.

“We are pleading with the President to show compassion and ensure justice is done. Many families have been in pain since their loved ones were arrested,” he added.

Isimili also criticised the manner in which the trial is being handled, insisting that the process should be opened to the public.

“We want proceedings that are transparent. Family members, journalists, and ordinary citizens should not be denied access to the court. Justice must be seen to be done,” he stated.

Another demonstrator, Abdullahi Kale, who said he travelled from Sokoto, expressed dissatisfaction over the prolonged detention of the suspects and alleged bias in the handling of the matter.

He warned that continued silence from the authorities could create deeper political resentment in parts of the country.

A woman identified as Habibat Muhammad also joined the protest while carrying her infant child. She appealed for leniency and said many affected families had been struggling financially and emotionally since the arrests, which she said took place several months ago.

Officials of the Federal Ministry of Justice later addressed the protesters and advised them to submit a formal petition outlining their grievances.

One senior ministry official, who declined to reveal her identity, urged the group to remain peaceful and organised.

“We informed them that their concerns should be properly documented and submitted through the right channel,” she said.

She further advised the demonstrators to send only a few representatives when returning with their petition.

“If they come back with a formal letter, two persons can present it. A large gathering may create a wrong impression,” the official added.