More than 200 terrorists were successfully prosecuted and convicted by the Federal Government during the recently concluded Phase Six terrorism trials, held at the Kainji Detention Facility, Niger State.
This was stated in a press release made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Sunday by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
According to the statement, the trials of the terrorists, including those involved in Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, and banditry, were conducted from December 9 to 13 this year.
“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 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.”
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The statement explained, “This achievement highlights the government’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of terrorism and safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.”
According to the statement, “The trials, presided over by five Federal High Court judges, were conducted in strict compliance with international standards of justice. They 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) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).”
“This coordinated effort ensured a transparent and efficient judicial process, sustaining effective administration of justice.
While the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation continues to lead and mobilize for a fair, transparent, and efficient judicial process, it is a critical step in reinforcing public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.”
It further explained that while the Department of 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 Five of the Terrorism Trial, which 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 statement added that the 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 the appropriate authorities as the nation strives toward a safer and more secure future.
