FG begins fresh mass trial of suspected terrorists in Abuja

The Federal Government on Monday commenced another phase of mass trials involving individuals accused of terrorism-related offences in Abuja.

The proceedings, which are typically conducted in Kainji, Niger State, were relocated to the Federal High Court in Abuja for this latest round of hearings.

The prosecution team is being led by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, while the defence is being coordinated by the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, alongside a team of lawyers representing the defendants.

The trial, which is taking place in all the courtrooms in the FHC, is expected to last for one week.

Some of the trial judges are Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu, Ekerete Akpan, among others.

No fewer than 58 suspected terrorists were listed for trial on Monday before Justice Nwite.

They are Abba Bukar, Abba Manye, Gujja Mala Bukar, Brem Gonimi, Isa Mohammed, Lawali Dashiri Danke, Yau Tukur (Mai-Auduga), Bello Liman, aka Alhaji Bell Doctor, among others.

Meanwhile, almost all other matters scheduled for today at the court had been rescheduled for the mass trial.

NAN reports that there security has been beefed up in and around the Central Business District and the Abuja Federal High Court.

All roads leading to the court were blocked by armed security personnel.

NAN reports that 500 suspected terrorists were also tried between April 7 and April 10 at the FHC in Abuja.

Speaking to newsmen, Fagbemi, said the 500 suspects were being prosecuted the Phase 9 of the mass trial of suspected terrorists in Abuja.

The AGF cited logistics reasons for the transfer of the cases to Abuja from Kainji.

“Whether the cases are tried in Kainji or Maiduguri, those to try terrorism suspects are judges of the Federal High Court.

“It is more convenient here; we have more courtrooms and facilities. We have 10 judges at a time, you know what it means. It means a lot,” Fagbemi said.

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