The Phase 7 of the Mass Trial of terrorist suspects has commenced, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced.
The National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), in a statement in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Major General Adamu Laka, said the trials represent Nigeria’s unwavering pursuit of justice and a reaffirmation of its resolve to confront terrorism through lawful and transparent means.
It is being conducted under the leadership of the Attorney-General of the Federation of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The trials are taking place in a specially constructed court situated in Wawa military cantonment in Kainji, Niger State.
The hearings were being conducted by judges and their court officials flown in from the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja, prosecutors from the Federal Ministry of Justice (FMOJ), and defense attorneys from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON). Additionally, representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the National Human Rights Commission, and the Nigerian Bar Association were usually present to observe the trials.
General Laka said it was encouraging to see the convergence of the Judiciary, law enforcement, legal practitioners, and partners, once again united in purpose and duty.
According to him, these trials are a cornerstone of the national commitment to upholding the rule of law while addressing terrorism and violent extremism.
Laka noted that Nigeria had recorded significant successes in strengthening its criminal justice capacity to handle terrorism-related offences.
He added that recent progress in the prosecution of such cases has played a critical role in addressing concerns raised by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
“Indeed, the advancements made through these trials have greatly contributed to Nigeria’s efforts toward exiting the FATF Grey List,” he said.
Laka extended appreciation to the Federal Government, the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and the Justices of the Federal High Court for their professionalism and dedication to justice.
He also acknowledged the valuable support of international partners, investigators, legal teams, and support staff.
On his part, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended the collaborative efforts of the ONSA and various local and international stakeholders for their ongoing support and contributions to the trials.
Fagbemi was represented by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Babadoko, at the ceremony.
He reiterates the Federal Government’s determination to ensure justice is served to both victims and accused persons within a framework that respects the rule of law and human rights. (NAN)
