The Federal Government of Nigeria has secured the conviction of over 325 terrorists in two separate phases of trials at the Kainji Detention Facility, Niger State.
During Phase 5 of the trials, held in July 2024, 143 cases were heard, leading to 125 convictions. Phase 6, which ran from December 9 to 13, 2024, saw 237 cases heard, with 200 convictions recorded.
The convicted terrorists received various sentences based on the severity of their crimes, ranging from 20 years in prison to life imprisonment, and in some cases, the death penalty.
A statement from the National Counter Terrorism Centre in the Office of the National Security Adviser explained that individuals sentenced to the maximum penalties were found guilty of heinous crimes, including attacks on women and children, the destruction of religious sites, the killing of civilians, and the abduction of women and children during a brutal attack on the Gina Kara Kai community in Borno State.
The statement reads, “The Federal Government of Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in its unwavering campaign against terrorism, including Boko Haram insurgency, IPOB insurrection, and banditry. Over 200 terrorists were successfully prosecuted and convicted during the just-concluded Phase 6 Terrorism Trials.
“Among those sentenced to the maximum penalty were individuals found guilty of heinous offences, such as the slaughter of innocent civilians, destruction of religious sites, and the abduction of women and children during an assault on Gina Kara Kai in Borno State.”
In addition to these convictions, individuals involved in financing terrorism were sentenced to life imprisonment. The government stressed that this underscores its determination to dismantle all facets of terrorist networks.
“This achievement highlights the government’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of terrorism and safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians,” the statement added.
The trials were presided over by five Federal High Court judges and conducted in line with international standards of justice. Measures were also taken to ensure the safety of judicial officers, witnesses, and stakeholders involved in the process.
The government assured Nigerians that the initiative reflects its commitment to global best practices in prosecuting terrorism cases and aligns with international conventions protecting human rights.
