In a major stride toward fortifying Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, the Federal Government has secured 44 new convictions in the latest phase of the Kainji Detention Facility Terrorism Trials, bringing the total number of terrorism-related convictions to 785.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by Mr. Michael Abu, Head of Strategic Communication at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
According to Abu, the convictions stemmed from Phase 7 proceedings, which involved 54 individuals arraigned on terrorism financing and related charges. Trials were conducted across four Federal High Courts, presided over by four justices, while 10 remaining cases were adjourned for further hearings.
“The sentences handed down ranged from 10 to 30 years with hard labour, underscoring the gravity of the offences and the Nigerian justice system’s resolve to ensure accountability and deterrence,” the statement noted.
The trial phase officially commenced on Wednesday, July 9, with an opening ceremony led by Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC, who delivered remarks on behalf of National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
Also present was a representative of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Mohammed Babadoko Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation.
“Nigeria remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice through lawful, transparent, and fair processes in the fight against terrorism,” both officials affirmed during the opening.
Mr. Abu also revealed that during Phase 6 of the trials, 237 cases were heard, leading to 200 convictions. Sentences from that phase ranged from death penalties and life imprisonment to terms of 20 to 70 years, depending on the severity of the crimes committed.
Many of the convicts were found guilty of gruesome acts, including:
Targeted attacks on women and children
Destruction of religious sites
Mass killings of civilians
Kidnappings and brutal assaults, particularly during an attack on Gina Kara Kai community in Borno State
The convictions are part of a broader judicial and national security strategy to dismantle terrorism financing networks, disrupt violent extremist operations, and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that justice is served without compromise, and that perpetrators of terrorism face the full weight of the law.
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