The trials, overseen by five Federal High Court judges, were conducted with strict adherence to international justice standards. The process was coordinated by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under ONSA, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government of Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in its fight against terrorism, securing convictions for more than 200 suspects involved in Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB-related activities, and banditry.
The convictions were announced following the conclusion of the Phase 6 Terrorism Trials held at the Kainji Detention Facility from December 9 to 13, 2024.
Over 200 Convictions Secured
According to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), 237 cases were heard during the trials, resulting in sentences ranging from 20 to 70 years imprisonment, life sentences, and the death penalty, depending on the severity of crimes. The convicted individuals were found guilty of offenses such as:
- Attacks on women and children
- Destruction of religious sites
- Massacres of civilians
- Abductions during the Gina Kara Kai community assault in Borno State
Notably, individuals convicted of financing terrorism—a key driver of violent activities—received life imprisonment, underlining the government’s comprehensive approach to dismantling terrorist networks.
The trials, overseen by five Federal High Court judges, were conducted with strict adherence to international justice standards. The process was coordinated by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under ONSA, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
“The NCTC-ONSA team coordinated both kinetic and non-kinetic counterterrorism measures, reaffirming the government’s resolve to hold perpetrators accountable, protect victims’ rights, and uphold the rule of law,” a statement from the Department of Strategic Communications noted.
Previous Trials and Broader Impact
In Phase 5 of the trials, held in July 2024, 143 cases were heard, resulting in 125 convictions. This ongoing effort highlights the Federal Government’s strengthened commitment to combating terrorism under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The government has bolstered institutional capacities, including the judiciary, military, police, and intelligence agencies, to expedite the prosecution of terrorism-related cases. Measures have also been implemented to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses, and other stakeholders involved in the trials.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, praised the judiciary and security agencies for their contributions to this landmark achievement. They called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing the need for unity in building a safer nation.
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