The Federal Government on Monday commenced another phase of mass trials for hundreds of suspected terrorists facing terrorism-related charges in Abuja.
This is as the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), declared that the administration would not treat terrorism with levity.
The prosecution is being led by Fagbemi, while the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, heads the defence team.
The trials, taking place simultaneously in several courtrooms, are expected to last one week.
Some of the judges handling the cases include Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu and Ekerete Akpan.
At least 58 suspected terrorists were listed for trial before Justice Nwite on Monday.
Among them are Abba Bukar, Abba Manye, Gujja Mala Bukar, Brem Gonimi, Isa Mohammed, Lawali Dashiri Danke, Yau Tukur (Mai-Auduga), and Bello Liman, also known as Bell Doctor.
The latest proceedings come barely two months after about 500 suspected terrorists were tried between April 7 and April 10 in Abuja.
Speaking with journalists at the commencement of the trials, Fagbemi said the proceedings demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the security of Nigerians.
“The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see ongoing trials,” he said.
According to him, the current exercise marked the fourth phase of terrorism trials under the administration.
“Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated.
“We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe haven for everybody,” the AGF said.
