The trial of six suspects accused of plotting to oust President Bola Tinubu is drawing concern over transparency after Justice Joyce Abdulmalik barred journalists from covering proceedings.

Justice Abdulmalik, whom some observers describe as the least media-friendly judges, has left judiciary correspondents uncertain about developments in the case, particularly as the suspects’ bail application is pending before the court.

The judge, who had earlier entered the courtroom flanked by two trainee judges, later left after observing the small but crowded courtroom.

Moments later, court security officials asked journalists to leave on the judge’s directive.

The move was initially resisted, but journalists eventually complied after appeals from a staff member of the Federal High Court communications department.

Earlier, the six accused suspects were brought into the small courtroom on the third floor of the Federal High Court under heightened security presence.

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