FG Resumes Boko Haram Trial, Frees 896 Fighters

In a move to address security concerns, the Federal Government resumed the trial of suspected Boko Haram members as part of the Kainji Prosecution Project Phase IV in Abuja on Monday. The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), highlighted the government’s commitment to citizens’ safety during the court session.

Fagbemi reported that the first phase, initiated in 2017, resulted in 366 convictions, with 896 suspects discharged due to insufficient evidence. Additionally, 61 cases were adjourned for further hearing. Stressing the importance of the initiative, Fagbemi urged stakeholders to sustain the momentum in ensuring the well-being of the country and its people.

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court presided over the trial, with the Legal Aid Council representing the defendants, expressing their commitment to a fair trial. The National Human Rights Commission assured the protection of defendants’ rights, while the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, emphasized the country’s adherence to the rule of law and a human rights-based approach in countering terrorism.

Ribadu urged all stakeholders to adhere to the identified timeline for trial completion, backed by President Bola Tinubu’s full support to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategies within a human rights framework.