The Federal Government has secured 386 convictions from 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, marking a significant outcome in the ongoing mass trial of suspected terrorists.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed this on Friday at the conclusion of the ninth phase of the trials.
According to him, eight defendants were discharged, two acquitted, while 112 cases were adjourned for continuation in the next phase.
“In total, we handled 508 cases. Out of these, 386 resulted in convictions, eight were discharged, two acquitted, and 112 adjourned to the next session,” he said.
Fagbemi announced that the 10th phase of the trials has already been scheduled to take place between June 15 and June 18, 2026.
The proceedings, which began on April 7 and concluded on April 10, involved over 500 suspects arraigned for offences related to terrorism under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
The trials were conducted before 10 judges, despite the commencement of the court’s Easter vacation.
The minister emphasized that the outcomes, including acquittals and discharges, demonstrate the government’s commitment to due process and the rule of law.
“The fact that some defendants were discharged or acquitted shows that due process was strictly followed. Those found not guilty were not wrongfully punished,” he stated.
He further noted that prosecuting the suspects in open court reflects respect for judicial oversight and constitutional order.
Fagbemi expressed satisfaction with the transparency of the process, noting the presence of key stakeholders, including representatives of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and members of the media.
He said the sentences handed down by the court are intended to serve as a deterrent to terrorism and its financing, stressing that Nigeria will not provide a safe haven for such activities.
Beyond punishment, the Attorney-General revealed that courts also ordered rehabilitation and de-radicalisation programmes for convicted individuals, aimed at reforming offenders and supporting their reintegration into society.
He commended the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, as well as the head of the trial team, Binta Nyako, for their dedication and patriotism, particularly for presiding over the cases during a period usually set aside for rest.
The Federal Government reiterated its resolve to continue the trials in subsequent phases as part of broader efforts to combat terrorism and uphold national security.
