By ABAH ADAH, Abuja
Another milestone has been recorded by the Federal Government of Nigeria, FGN, in its unwavering campaign against terrorism – the Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, banditry, kidnapping.
Over 200 terrorists were said to have been successfully prosecuted and convicted during the just-concluded Phase 6 Terrorism Trials held at the Kainji Detention Facility from December 9 to 13, 2024.
A statement issued on Sunday by the Department of Strategic Communications, National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Advisor, NCTC-ONSA, said a total of 237 cases were heard from the trials.
According to the statement, 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 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.
“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, 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), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA),” the statement noted.
This coordinated effort ensured a transparent and efficient judicial process, the sustenance of effective administration of justice.
While the Department of the Public Prosecution of the Federation continues to lead and mobilise for fair, transparent, and efficient judicial process which is a critical step in reinforcing public trust in the country’s justice system. While the Department of the 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.
It explained further that of the Phase 5 of the Terrorism Trial that took place in July, 143 cases were heard with 125 convictions, adding that measures were also being implemented to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses, and other stakeholders involved in the trials.
It was equally disclosed that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi 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 appropriate authorities, as the nation strives toward a safer and a more secure future.
