Federal Government Launches New Terrorism Trials in Abuja

The federal government has commenced a fresh phase of prosecution against suspected terrorists, with the arraignment of suspects taking place at the Federal High Court in Abuja. This shift from the usual venue at Kainji in Niger State allows for multiple judges to hear terrorism-related cases simultaneously.

Among the judges involved are Justices Binta Nyako, James Omotosho, Salim Ibrahim, Emeka Nwite, Obiora Egwuatu, Hauwa Yilwa, Joyce Abdulmalik, and Peter Lifu. On Thursday, 34 suspected terrorists were listed for proceedings before Justice Ibrahim, while another 25 defendants were scheduled to appear before Justice Lifu.

Notable defendants included Isah Ismail, Alai Goni, Bulama Lawal, Garba Ibrahim, Mallam Modu Abba Kichi, Lawal Alhaji Mamman, and Usman Abubakar. The prosecution team was led by the Director of Public Prosecution, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), instead of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

The defence team was led by Aliyu Abubakar, the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council.