AGF Lateef Fagbemi Reports 653 Terrorism Convictions

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), reported that 653 terrorism suspects have been convicted during the ongoing 11th phase of terrorism trials at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He disclosed that 1,060 suspects were brought before the court, with 880 cases tried, resulting in 653 convictions, seven acquittals, and 27 discharges.

Fagbemi described this phase as the largest since the federal government began special terrorism trials, attributing the progress to judicial cooperation, effective prosecution, and inter-agency collaboration. He expressed gratitude to the judges, particularly Justice Binta Nyako, who is acting on behalf of Chief Judge Justice John Tsoho.

He also acknowledged the contributions of prosecution and defense counsel, as well as relevant security and justice institutions. The AGF noted that the Legal Aid Council is providing legal assistance to eligible defendants while private lawyers also represent some suspects.

He emphasized that defense lawyers have been engaging with their clients prior to court proceedings.