The Federal Government on Monday commenced a fresh phase of the mass trial of individuals accused of terrorism-related offences, with proceedings taking place at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The trials, which are traditionally held in Kainji, Niger State, were relocated to Abuja to facilitate smoother proceedings and provide access to more courtrooms and judicial resources.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), is leading the prosecution team, while the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, heads the defence counsel representing the accused persons.
The exercise, expected to run for one week, is being conducted simultaneously in several courtrooms, with multiple judges assigned to handle the cases. Among the judges presiding over the proceedings are Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu and Ekerete Akpan.
Before Justice Emeka Nwite alone, no fewer than 58 suspected terrorists were listed for arraignment on Monday. The defendants include Abba Bukar, Abba Manye, Gujja Mala Bukar, Brem Gonimi, Isa Mohammed, Lawali Dashiri Danke, Yau Tukur, popularly known as Mai-Auduga, and Bello Liman, also known as Alhaji Bell Doctor, among others.
The commencement of the mass trial disrupted normal court activities, as several cases previously scheduled for hearing were adjourned to make way for the terrorism proceedings.
Security was significantly reinforced around the Federal High Court complex and other strategic locations within Abuja's Central Business District. Armed security personnel were deployed across the area, while access roads leading to the court premises were temporarily restricted.
Speaking with journalists, Fagbemi recalled that about 500 suspected terrorists were prosecuted between April 7 and April 10 during the ninth phase of the mass terrorism trials.
He explained that the decision to move the proceedings from Kainji to Abuja was driven by logistical considerations and the need for improved facilities.
“Whether the cases are heard in Kainji or Maiduguri, the judges handling terrorism matters are judges of the Federal High Court,” he said.
“It is more convenient to conduct the trials here because we have more courtrooms and better facilities. Having up to 10 judges sitting simultaneously greatly enhances the efficiency of the process.”
The ongoing trials form part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen the fight against terrorism and ensure the speedy dispensation of justice in cases involving national security.
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