Nigeria Secures 386 Terrorism Convictions in Latest Mass Trials in Abuja

Nigeria secured 386 terrorism-related convictions out of 508 cases during mass trials in Abuja, according to Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi. The trials, part of ongoing proceedings since 2017 involving Boko Haram and Daesh suspects, also saw eight discharges, two acquittals, and 112 cases adjourned. Sentences ranged from five years to life imprisonment, with rehabilitation programmes mandated. The next phase of trials is expected before the end of May.

Nigeria has recorded nearly 400 terrorism-related convictions following a fresh round of mass trials held this week in the nation’s capital, Abuja, marking a significant development in the country’s long-running efforts to prosecute individuals linked to insurgent activities. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, made this known late on Friday, providing a detailed breakdown of the outcomes from the latest proceedings.
The trials, which began on Tuesday, form part of a broader judicial initiative targeting suspects associated with extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Daesh. This legal process dates back to 2017, when Nigerian authorities launched large-scale prosecutions involving more than 2,000 defendants accused of terrorism-related offences. The initiative was designed to address the backlog of cases involving suspected militants and collaborators, while also reinforcing the rule of law in the country’s counterterrorism strategy.
According to Fagbemi, a total of 508 cases were brought before the Federal High Court during the current phase of the trials. Out of this number, the court secured 386 convictions, reflecting a substantial proportion of the cases heard. In addition to the convictions, eight individuals were discharged, meaning they were released without further legal action, while two defendants were formally acquitted after the court found insufficient evidence to support the charges against them. Meanwhile, 112 cases were adjourned and are expected to continue in the next phase of the proceedings.
The sentences imposed on those convicted varied depending on the severity of the offences and the level of involvement established during the trials. Punishments ranged from a minimum of five years’ imprisonment to life sentences for the most serious crimes. Beyond incarceration, the court also mandated that convicted individuals participate in rehabilitation and deradicalisation programmes. These measures are intended to address extremist ideologies, reduce the risk of reoffending, and support the eventual reintegration of former militants into society.
Fagbemi further indicated that the judicial process is ongoing, with preparations already underway for the next phase of the trials. He noted that subsequent hearings are expected to commence before the end of the current quarter in May, as the government continues its efforts to conclude pending cases and strengthen accountability in the fight against terrorism.