FG Kicks Off Mass Trial Of Suspected Terrorists In Abuja Amid Tight Security

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday commenced the trial of multiple individuals accused of terrorism-related offences, marking a significant step in ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the country. According to Ireporter Online, the proceedings, which are typically conducted in Kainji, Niger State, were temporarily relocated to Abuja due to the court’s Easter vacation schedule.

The vacation, which began on April 7 and is set to end on April 13, prompted the judiciary to make arrangements for terrorism cases to continue without interruption, with normal sittings expected to resume nationwide on April 14. As part of this adjustment, hearings were scheduled to take place in Abuja to ensure continuity in the judicial process.

Reports indicate that no fewer than 13 courtrooms within the Abuja division of the Federal High Court are currently handling various terrorism-related cases. Several judges are presiding over the matters, including Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, and Akpan Ekerete, among others.

During Tuesday’s session, approximately 20 suspects were arraigned before Justice Emeka Nwite for trial, facing charges linked to terrorism activities. The Federal Government’s prosecution team was led by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), while the defence team was headed by the Director General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar.

Among those listed in the court records are Hamat Modu, Isah Ali, Awal Bello, Shehu Bukar, Alhaji Kulle, Mohammed Abacha Hassan, Aminami Mallum, Tasiu Yakubu, and Abdullahi Ali, alongside other defendants, all facing allegations connected to terrorism offences.

Security was visibly intensified around the court premises as proceedings began. Armed personnel were strategically deployed across the Federal High Court complex located in Abuja’s Central Business District, with access roads leading to the venue restricted. A police helicopter was also observed patrolling the airspace, underscoring heightened measures to maintain order and ensure safety throughout the trials.