More than 200 terrorists were prosecuted and convicted during the Phase six terrorism trials at the Kainji Detention Facility, Niger State.
The trials were conducted from December 9 to 13, according to a statement from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), yesterday.
The statement said that the convicted individuals received various sentences, ranging from death penalty to life imprisonment and terms of 20 to 70 years, reflecting the severity of their crimes.
The statement said: “Among those sentenced to the maximum penalty were individuals found guilty of heinous offences, including attacks on women and children, destruction of religious sites, the slaughter of innocent civilians, and the abduction of women and children in brutal assault at Gina Kara Kai community in Borno State.
“Additionally, individuals involved in terrorism-financing – a critical enabler of violent activities – were sentenced to life imprisonment, underscoring the Federal Government’s unyielding resolve to dismantle all aspects of terrorist networks.”
“This achievement highlights the government’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of terrorism and safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
“The trials, presided over by five Federal High Court judges, were conducted in strict compliance with international standards of justice, mark a critical step in restoring peace and stability in affected regions across the country.”
The statement said that the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, under the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation oversaw the trials in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
It said: “The coordinated effort ensured a transparent and efficient judicial process, the sustenance of effective administration of justice. While the Department of the Public Prosecution of the Federation continues to lead and mobilize for a fair, transparent and efficient judicial process which is a critical step in reinforcing public trust in the country’s justice system, reinforcing public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.
“While the Department of the Public Prosecutions led the legal process, the NCTC-ONSA coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic counterterrorism measures, reaffirming the Federal Government’s determination to hold perpetrators accountable, protect victims’ rights and uphold the rule of law.”
The statement said that the current administration had significantly strengthened the capacities of institutions, including the military, police, intelligence, law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to facilitate the swift and effective administration of justice.
It said that measures had also been implemented to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses and other stakeholders involved in the trials.
“This initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in prosecuting terrorism-related cases and aligns with international conventions aimed at protecting fundamental rights,” the statement said.
It added that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu had hailed the judiciary, military, police, and other security agencies for their dedication to this landmark achievement.
The Phase five of the terrorism trial that took place in July and 143 cases were heard with 125 convictions.