TERRORISM: FG SECURES 653 CONVICTIONS, PROSECUTES 1,060 SUSPECTS

The Federal Government has secured 653 convictions in the third phase of its ongoing mass trial of terrorism suspects.

The convicted persons were among 1,060 defendants brought before the court over alleged involvement in terrorism-related offences. Some were found guilty of aiding insurgents or withholding information about their operations from security agencies.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, disclosed the figures while speaking to journalists after Friday’s court proceedings.

Fagbemi, who led the prosecution, said 880 cases had been heard. He reported 653 convictions, seven acquittals and the discharge of 27 defendants.

He explained that proceedings were continuing and that final figures would be released when the exercise was completed.

The minister described the current phase as the largest since the government began the special court sessions for terrorism suspects. He attributed its progress to cooperation among judges, prosecutors, defence lawyers and security agencies.

He commended the judges handling the proceedings, particularly Justice Binta Nyako, who was acting on behalf of the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho.

Fagbemi also acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the military, police and correctional authorities.

He praised the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria for representing eligible defendants, explaining that the council was carrying out its responsibility to provide legal assistance.

According to him, continued collaboration among these institutions remains essential to prosecuting terrorism, terrorism financing and related offences.