FG begins 11th phase of terrorism suspects’ trials; 653 convicted

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has disclosed that 653 terrorism suspects have been convicted during the ongoing 11th phase of terrorism trials at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Fagbemi, who gave the update while reviewing the progress of the trials on Friday, said 1,060 suspects had been brought before the court for the exercise, the third phase conducted this year.

He disclosed that, as of noon on Friday, 880 cases had been tried, resulting in 653 convictions, seven acquittals and 27 discharges.

However, the AGF said the exercise was still ongoing and that the final figures would be announced at its conclusion. He described the current phase as apparently the largest since the Federal Government began the special terrorism trials, attributing the progress to judicial cooperation, effective prosecution and inter-agency collaboration.

Fagbemi appreciated the judges handling the cases, particularly those working under the leadership of Justice Binta Nyako, who has been acting on behalf of the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho.

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He also commended the prosecution and defence counsel, as well as relevant security and justice institutions, for their contributions to the exercise.

The agencies he acknowledged included the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, the police, correctional centres and the Legal Aid Council.

According to him, collaboration among the institutions has been critical to advancing the prosecution of terrorism, terrorism financing and related offences in the country.

The AGF also thanked journalists for informing the public about the Federal Government’s efforts to address terrorism and other security challenges in the country.

On the representation of defendants by lawyers from the Legal Aid Council, Fagbemi explained that the council was fulfilling its responsibility to provide legal assistance to eligible defendants. He clarified that some suspects were also being represented by private legal practitioners.

He said defence lawyers had been engaging with their clients before court proceedings, including visiting detention facilities and preparing them for their defence. He noted that some of these preparatory activities could not be made public because of the sensitive security considerations surrounding the cases.

On deradicalisation for suspects recommended by the court, Fagbemi said the process remained an important part of the exercise. He explained that it was intended to help eligible individuals understand and regret their actions, allowing them to reintegrate into society and resume their daily lives.

The AGF maintained that rehabilitation and reintegration were necessary to complement the judicial process and reduce the risk of individuals returning to extremist activities.

The ongoing trials form part of the Federal Government’s efforts to prosecute terrorism-related offences and strengthen accountability in its response to insecurity.