Since 2017, the Federal Government of Nigeria has conducted six phases of trials for 1,743 suspected terrorists, securing 742 convictions while discharging and acquitting 888 suspects due to insufficient evidence and other factors. Additionally, 92 trials have been adjourned to future dates, according to Mohammed Babadoko, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation.
Providing a breakdown during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Babadoko stated:
- October 2017: 50 convictions, 203 acquittals, and 28 adjournments.
- February 2018: 203 convictions, 582 acquittals, and 24 adjournments.
- July 2018: 113 convictions, 102 acquittals, and 9 adjournments.
- December 2023: 14 convictions, 1 acquittal, and 10 adjournments.
- July 2024: 125 convictions, no acquittals, and 21 adjournments.
- December 2024: 237 convictions with no acquittals or adjournments.
Many of these cases involved terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other related crimes, with sentences ranging from 60 years to life imprisonment.
Babadoko also noted that in the past year, over 515 cases were concluded, and more than 800 individuals—either acquitted or having served their terms—were transferred to Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe for rehabilitation and reintegration. This initiative aligns with court directives and federal government policy.
Deradicalisation and Reintegration Efforts
Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), emphasized that the deradicalisation process under Operation Safe Corridor is reserved for those not found guilty by the courts. Participants undergo psychological evaluations, mental health support, family reunifications, and economic interventions.
Historical Context and Stakeholder Collaboration
National Counter-Terrorism Centre Coordinator Major General Adamu Laka recounted the escalation of terrorist attacks in Nigeria, beginning with the Independence Day bombing on October 1, 2010, in Abuja, followed by attacks on the UN building and Police Headquarters.
Laka highlighted the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in the mass trials, including Federal High Court judges, prosecutors, Legal Aid Council defence counsel, staff from the National Security Adviser’s office, and observers from the Nigerian Bar Association and the media.
These trials and initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to addressing terrorism while facilitating rehabilitation and reintegration for eligible individuals.
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