FG secures about 150 terrorism convictions in 48 hours, says AGF

By Victor Idajili

The Federal Government has recorded roughly 150 convictions in the first two days of its latest mass trial for terrorism suspects, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) said on Tuesday.

Fagbemi spoke to journalists at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where 10 judges are handling the cases simultaneously.

According to him, Monday’s session alone saw about 160 cases brought before the court, with around 150 convictions recorded on day one. On Tuesday, the courts took on approximately 300 cases, and another 84 were expected to be concluded before closing.

“Yesterday, we had about 160 trials. I think about 150 convictions,” Fagbemi told reporters. “Whatever we can do, or wherever we stop today, we’ll continue tomorrow and also on Thursday. So it’s still ongoing.”

The AGF asked the public to be patient as proceedings continue, saying the exercise shows the government’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the rule of law.

“Terrorism will not be tolerated”  
On Monday, Fagbemi said this is the fourth round of mass terrorism trials under the current administration. He described it as a clear warning that the government is treating terrorism seriously.

“The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see ongoing trials,” he said. “Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated.”

Fagbemi is leading the prosecution team, while Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, heads the defence. The cases are spread across several courtrooms and are being heard by Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu, Ekerete Akpan, and others.

This phase runs through Thursday as part of a week-long exercise. It follows an earlier round from April 7-10, where no fewer than 500 alleged terrorists were tried at the same court in Abuja.