Plateau Court Affirms State High Courts' Authority on Terrorism

A Plateau State High Court, presided over by Justice Gedeliah Fwomyon, ruled that State High Courts have the constitutional authority to try terrorism and terrorism-related offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. This decision could significantly impact terrorism prosecutions in Nigeria.

The ruling arose from a preliminary objection by four suspects—Isa Umar Ibrahim, Adamu Isa Alhassan, Auwalu Abubakar, and Musa Abubakar Ibrahim—who were arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) for their alleged involvement in the Easter 2026 Angwan Rukuba massacre in Jos. The defendants contended that such cases fell under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.

However, Justice Fwomyon stated that the TPPA, while federal legislation, does not prohibit State High Courts from trying related offences. He also affirmed that terrorism is not listed in the Exclusive Legislative List, allowing State Houses of Assembly to legislate on the matter.

The court dismissed the defendants' objection and adjourned the case to October 15 and 21, 2026, for trial continuation.