Those standing trial are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar. They are facing nine terrorism charges. The DSS told the court the men are linked to foreign fighters from the Al-Shabab group and warned that they could flee if released on bail.

The agency also said witnesses in the case have expressed fear of intimidation, leading the court to grant an application for their identities to be shielded throughout the trial.

Defence lawyer Abdullahi Mohammad asked the court to consider the long detention of the accused since 2022 and grant them bail, but the prosecution, represented by Dr. Calistus Eze, strongly opposed the application.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned ruling on the bail request to September 10. The judge also approved the takeover of the case by senior lawyer Ayodeji Adedipe, who will lead the prosecution.