The Federal Government has resumed prosecutions of suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists. About 500 detainees, held in military custody in Kainji, Niger State, and Maiduguri, Borno State, were profiled and cleared for arraignment.
On the opening day, 227 defendants appeared before 10 judges in a special session of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Many suspects admitted to supporting terrorism by providing logistics, food, materials, and financing insurgent groups through “Zakat” payments.
Some defendants received jail terms exceeding 20 years. Justice Binta Nyako handed down long sentences to key suppliers of food and materials linked to Boko Haram.
Defendants were represented by lawyers from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON). Pre-trial interviews helped support their defense.
The Attorney-General emphasized that the trial is transparent. International and local media, Amnesty International, civil society, and the Nigerian Bar Association observed the proceedings.
Judges ordered that convicts undergo rehabilitation and de‑radicalization after serving their sentences. The Ministry of Interior will direct where they will serve their terms.
This mass prosecution is part of Phase 9 of Nigeria’s anti-terrorism campaign. It is expected to continue throughout the week, with more arraignments and judgments scheduled.
