Counterterrorism: FG secures conviction of 200 suspects 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has secured the conviction of more than 200 terrorists successfully prosecuted during the just-concluded Phase Six Terrorism Trials held at the Kainji Detention Facility from December 9 to December 13.

This is contained in a statement from the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), on Sunday in Abuja.

The centre said the government has achieved a major milestone in its unwavering campaign against terrorism, including Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, and banditry.

According to NCTC, a total of 237 cases were heard during the trials.

“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 a brutal assault at Gina Kara Kai community in Borno.

“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, marking a critical step in restoring peace and stability in affected regions across the country,” the statement said.

The statement also mentioned that the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, under the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, oversaw the trials in collaboration with NCTC-ONSA. It added that the coordinated effort ensured a transparent and efficient judicial process for the sustenance of effective administration of justice.

According to NCTC, while the DPP 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 Phase 5 of the trial that took place in July this year, 143 cases were heard, with 125 convictions.

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“Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, 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,” it added.

The centre said the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), 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 more secure future.