The Federal Government has begun moves to extradite former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, over his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu, as fresh details emerge in the high-profile case.

Sylva, who is listed as the seventh defendant in the charge, is reportedly on the run and is currently being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his whereabouts and the pace of proceedings.

Extradition plan underway

Sources revealed that authorities have enlisted the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to help track and return the former minister to Nigeria, in a bid to ensure he faces prosecution alongside other accused persons.

The move signals a more aggressive push by the government to bring all defendants before the court, especially those currently outside its immediate reach.

Six defendants to face trial

Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to arraign six other suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the same alleged coup plot, marking the next phase of the legal process.

The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

Court proceedings begin

The suit was filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the Federal Government, as authorities move to prosecute those linked to the alleged plot.

All six defendants are expected to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are set to commence.

Sylva still at large

Despite being named in the charge, Sylva remains at large, with efforts ongoing to secure his return through international cooperation.

The case has continued to draw attention as one of the most sensitive security-related prosecutions in recent times.