The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to present Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sani Zaria, before it on February 18 in connection with allegations linking him to a purported coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The ruling follows confirmation by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in January that 16 military officers were arrested in the first week of the month over an alleged attempt to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Justice Peter Lifu issued the order on Friday while hearing a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the cleric, who has reportedly been in custody since December 2025.
Zaria was initially detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and subsequently transferred to the DIA.
In his application, the cleric named the EFCC, DIA, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and Jaiz Bank Plc as respondents. He is seeking his immediate release, contending that his detention is unlawful and unsupported by due process.
During the proceedings, the federal government was unable to present a valid court order authorising his continued detention, drawing strong rebuke from the court.
Justice Lifu had earlier instructed the DIA to either produce such an order or justify the detention in line with existing laws, including the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
Describing the extended detention as troubling, the judge ordered that the cleric be brought before the court on the next adjourned date, where the issue of possible bail would be considered pending further hearings.
