FG secures conviction of over 200 terror suspects

By Ochiaka Ugwu

The Federal Government has secured the conviction of over 200 terrorism and banditry suspects.
The conviction was handed down by the Federal High Court in a mass trial conducted at the Kanji military detention facility in Niger State.
In a statement released by the Department of Strategic Communications of the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Abuja Sunday, it noted, “Federal Government of Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in its unwavering campaign against terrorism, including Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, and banditry as over 200 terrorists have been successfully prosecuted and convicted during the just-concluded Phase 6 Terrorism Trials held at the Kainji Detention Facility from December 9 to 13, 2024. A total of 237 cases were heard from the trials.
According to the statement, “The convicted individuals received various sentences, ranging from the death penalty to life imprisonment and terms of 20 to 70 years, reflecting the severity of their crimes.
“Among those sentenced to the maximum penalty were individuals found guilty of heinous offences, including attacks on women and children, destruction of religious sites, the slaughter of innocent civilians, and the abduction of women and children in brutal assault at Gina Kara Kai community in Borno State.
“Additionally, individuals involved in terrorism-financing – a critical enabler of violent activities – were sentenced to life imprisonment, underscoring the Federal Government’s unyielding resolve to dismantle all aspects of terrorist networks.
“This achievement highlights the government’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of terrorism and safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
“The trials, presided over by five Federal High Court judges, were conducted in strict compliance with international standards of justice, mark a critical step in restoring peace and stability in affected regions across the country.
“The Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, under the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation oversaw the trials in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). This coordinated effort ensured a transparent and efficient judicial process, the sustenance of effective administration of justice.
“While the Department of the Public Prosecution of the Federation continues to lead and mobilizing for fair, transparent and efficient judicial process which is a critical step in reinforcing public trust in the country’s justice system, reinforcing public trust in the Nigeria’s justice system. While the Department of the Public Prosecutions led the legal process, the NCTC-ONSA coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic counterterrorism measures, reaffirming the Federal Government’s determination to hold perpetrators accountable, protect victims’ rights and uphold the rule of law.
“At the Phase 5 of the Terrorism Trial that took place in July this year, 143 cases were heard with 125 convictions.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the administration has significantly strengthened the capacities of institutions, including the military, police, intelligence, law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to facilitate the swift and effective administration of justice.
“Measures have also been implemented to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses, and other stakeholders involved in the trials.
“This initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in prosecuting terrorism-related cases and aligns with international conventions aimed at protecting fundamental rights.
“The Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and the National Security Adviser , Nuhu Ribadu commended the judiciary, military, police, and other security agencies for their dedication to this landmark achievement.
“They urged Nigerians to remain united, vigilant, and proactive in reporting suspicious activities to appropriate authorities, as the nation strives toward a safer and a more secure future” the statement concluded.