The Federal Government has commenced the trial of 500 terrorism suspects at the Federal High Court in Abuja, marking a major step in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
The suspects face charges linked to a series of attacks in northern Nigeria, which have claimed more than 2,000 lives and destroyed property. Some are accused of direct involvement in assaults, while others allegedly supported the violence through financing, arms supply, ammunition, or providing food.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, led the prosecution, supported by Director of the Public Prosecution of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN. The defense was represented by Aliu Bagudu Abubakar, Director of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, with additional lawyers.
Fagbemi confirmed that 227 suspects were tried before 10 judges of the Federal High Court. He thanked the judges for sitting during the Easter holiday to expedite proceedings. To ensure transparency, representatives from international bodies—including Amnesty International, human rights organizations, and the Nigeria Bar Association—were invited to observe.
Security was tight as the suspects arrived in convoy, escorted by armed soldiers, Department of State Service operatives, and police.
In one session, Justice Binta Fatima Nyako sentenced Hamatu Modu, a major food supplier for Boko Haram in Borno State, to 40 years in prison. Modu admitted in court to supplying food and intelligence to terrorists. In separate rulings, Justice Nyako sentenced Isah Ali, another food supplier, to 10 years; Sheu Buka, who sold goats to the group, to 20 years; and Hamza Yahuza, who supplied Indian hemp and cigarettes, to seven years.
The judge ordered that all convicts undergo rehabilitation and deradicalization after serving their sentences, with the Federal Ministry of Interior determining their place of detention.
The trial will continue on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, as the government presses ahead with its legal response to terrorism.
