FG secured 325 terrorism convictions in six months, says ONSA

The federal government says it has prosecuted and convicted over 325 persons for various terrorism offences.

According to a statement on Sunday from the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, the feat was achieved in the Phase 5 and Phase 6 trials held at the Kainji detention facility.

In the Phase 5 trial in July 2024, 143 cases were heard, with 125 convictions secured.

During Phase 6, held at the same venue, 237 cases were heard, with 200 convictions secured.

The statement said the terrorists received various sentences, ranging from death penalty to life imprisonment, and prison terms of 20 to 70 years, depending on the severity of their crimes.

The maximum penalty was handed to individuals found guilty of heinous offences. 

“The federal government of Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in its unwavering campaign against terrorism, including Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, and banditry as over 200 terrorists have been successfully prosecuted and convicted during the just-concluded Phase 6 Terrorism Trials held at the Kainji Detention Facility from December 9 to 13, 2024,” the statement reads.

“A total of 237 cases were heard from the trials.

“The convicted individuals received various sentences, ranging from the death penalty to life imprisonment and terms of 20 to 70 years, reflecting the severity of their crimes.

“Among those sentenced to the maximum penalty were individuals found guilty of heinous offences, including attacks on women and children, destruction of religious sites, the slaughter of innocent civilians, and the abduction of women and children in a brutal assault at Gina Kara Kai community in Borno state.

“Additionally, individuals involved in terrorism financing — a critical enabler of violent activities — were sentenced to life imprisonment, underscoring the Federal Government’s unyielding resolve to dismantle all aspects of terrorist networks.

“This achievement highlights the government’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of terrorism and safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.

“At the Phase 5 of the terrorism trial that took place in July this year, 143 cases were heard with 125 convictions.

“The trials, presided over by five federal high court judges, were conducted in strict compliance with international standards of justice, marking a critical step in restoring peace and stability in affected regions across the country.

“Measures have also been implemented to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses, and other stakeholders involved in the trials.

“This initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in prosecuting terrorism-related cases and aligns with international conventions aimed at protecting fundamental rights.”