Plateau High Court Affirms State Jurisdiction on Terrorism

On Tuesday, the Plateau High Court, presided over by Justice Gedeliah Fwomyon, ruled that State High Courts have the jurisdiction to try individuals accused of terrorism and related offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act (TPPA) 2022. This ruling is significant as it challenges the traditional association of terrorism cases with the Federal High Court.

The decision arose from a jurisdictional application filed by four suspects—Isa Umar Ibrahim, Adamu Isa Alhassan, Auwalu Abubakar (also known as Auwalu Dogo), and Musa Abubakar Ibrahim (also known as Yaroro)—who were arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) for their alleged involvement in the Easter 2026 Angwa Rukuba massacre. The court dismissed the suspects' application to transfer them from DSS custody, affirming that the TPPA does not prevent State High Courts from handling such cases.

Additionally, a motion by Auwalu Abubakar for medical transfer to Jos University Teaching Hospital was also rejected due to insufficient evidence. The case is adjourned to 15 and 21 October 2026.