FG Arraigns Over 400 Terrorism Suspects in Abuja

The Federal Government commenced the arraignment of over 400 terrorism suspects at the Federal High Court in Abuja on a Monday as part of ongoing efforts to address insurgency and terrorism-related crimes across Nigeria. The mass arraignment took place in several courtrooms simultaneously, necessitating a temporary halt to regular court activities to allow judges to participate in the special proceedings.

The prosecuting team was led by Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, alongside Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, with government lawyers handling the cases. Many defendants could not afford legal representation, prompting the provision of legal aid by the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria.

Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, assigned multiple judges to manage the special proceedings, which are part of efforts to expedite long-pending terrorism cases. Security was significantly heightened around the Federal High Court complex, with armed soldiers deployed at strategic points and military vehicles stationed to prevent any security breaches.