Nigeria has intensified its fight against terrorism with the commencement of Phase 9 of its mass trial of suspected terrorists in Abuja, bringing the total number of defendants to 500. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, announced the development during a briefing to journalists after personally leading the prosecution team to the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The trial, which began on Tuesday, is scheduled to conclude by Friday or Saturday. On the opening day, 227 suspects appeared before 10 judges of the Federal High Court, an unusual move given that the Easter holiday period typically sees courts on recess. Fagbemi praised the judges for their patriotism in prioritising the trial, emphasising its national importance.
The decision to move the trial from its usual venue in Kainji, Niger State, to Abuja was driven by logistical considerations. Fagbemi explained that Abuja offers more courtrooms and better facilities, allowing for the simultaneous handling of cases by multiple judges. He also confirmed that the government has the legal authority to hold the proceedings in the capital.
The mass trial has drawn significant attention from international and local stakeholders, including Amnesty International, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Nigerian Bar Association, and members of the human rights community. Fagbemi stressed that the trial is open and transparent, with no secret proceedings. He noted that convictions will only be secured where the law’s requirements are fully met, and that evidence, including confessions, will be presented in public.
The Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, who led the defence team, expressed satisfaction with the trial’s conduct. He highlighted that many suspects have admitted to their involvement, and that some have been convicted for association with Boko Haram or ISWAP, even if not directly participating in violent acts. Notably, one or two suspects were discharged and acquitted, underscoring the transparency of the process.
Pre-trial interviews were conducted in Maiduguri and Kainji, allowing defence lawyers to meet with defendants before their court appearance. This step, the DG noted, is a legal requirement and ensures that the rights of the accused are respected.
The mass trial represents a significant effort by the Nigerian government to address the persistent threat of terrorism, particularly in the country’s northeast. With international observers present and proceedings conducted openly, the government aims to demonstrate its commitment to due process while pursuing justice for victims of terrorism.
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