The Federal Government on Tuesday commenced the prosecution of about 500 suspects accused of involvement in terrorism-related activities across Nigeria, marking a major step in efforts to address insecurity in the country.
The trials, which began at the Federal High Court in Abuja, involve individuals allegedly linked to a series of attacks in northern Nigeria that have claimed over 2,000 lives and led to widespread destruction of property.
According to authorities, the suspects face various charges ranging from direct participation in violent attacks to aiding terrorist operations through financial support, supply of arms and ammunition, and provision of food and logistics.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), is leading the prosecution team alongside the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN). The defence team is headed by the Director of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Aliu Bagudu Abubakar, supported by several lawyers.
Fagbemi disclosed that 227 suspects were initially arraigned before 10 judges of the Federal High Court. He commended the judges for dedicating part of their Easter holiday to ensure the trials commenced without delay.
To promote transparency and adherence to due process, the government invited representatives from international and local organisations, including Amnesty International and the Nigerian Bar Association, to observe the proceedings.
The suspects were transported to court under heavy security, with personnel from the military, Department of State Services (DSS), and the police deployed to maintain order.
In one of the early judgments, Justice Binta Fatima Nyako sentenced a convicted supplier of food to Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State, Hamatu Modu, to a lengthy prison term after he admitted to aiding the group. Other convictions followed, including Isah Ali, who received 10 years imprisonment for similar offences.
Additionally, Sheu Buka was sentenced to 20 years for supplying livestock to insurgents, while Hamza Yahuza was jailed for seven years for providing prohibited items to the group.
The court also directed that the convicts undergo rehabilitation after serving their sentences. Proceedings are expected to continue on April 8, 2026.
