The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, on Tuesday delivered multiple convictions in terrorism-related cases, sentencing five defendants to varying terms of imprisonment, including 20 years, while remanding another accused person for trial. The proceedings mark the commencement of the ninth phase of the Federal Government’s mass prosecution of terrorism suspects.
Justice M. O. Olajuwon ordered the remand of Babagana Umar in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) after he pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge under the Terrorism (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022.
Umar is alleged to have knowingly supported Boko Haram by supplying spare parts and firewood in Sambisa Forest in 2022, contrary to Section 13 of the Act. He is further accused of withholding material information about the group’s activities, contrary to Section 16. The matter was adjourned for continuation of trial.
In a separate case, Justice Olajuwon convicted Yusuf Tuggar Abacha, who pleaded guilty to charges of professing membership of Boko Haram, concealing information about a member of the group, and participating in terrorist attacks.
Although a count relating to training in AK-47 handling was struck out, the court sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment on each count, to run concurrently. The judge further directed that he undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation upon completion of his custodial term.
Justice Binta Nyako presided over related cases, convicting four defendants:
– Case FHC/KMJ/CR/583/2026: A defendant pleaded guilty to membership of Boko Haram, provision of material support, and handling of funds. He was sentenced to 10 years on each of four counts, to run concurrently.
– Isa Ali: Sentenced to 10 years for logistical support, though the membership count was struck out.
– Auwal Bello: Received 10 years for terrorism financing, including transactions of N750,000 and N20,000 in favour of Boko Haram.
– Shehu Bukar: Sentenced to 20 years for supplying cattle and goats to the group. Justice Nyako described his conduct as “gruesome” and rejected pleas for leniency.
All convicts were directed to undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation, with the Ministry of Interior determining the correctional facilities for their incarceration.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, confirmed that 500 suspects are slated for trial in this phase, with 227 arraigned on the first day. Ten judges of the Federal High Court are sitting during the Easter vacation to expedite proceedings.
Fagbemi explained that the trials were relocated to Abuja for logistical convenience, noting that multiple courtrooms allow simultaneous sittings. He emphasized that the proceedings are open, with observers from Amnesty International, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the Nigerian Bar Association present.
Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliu Abubakar, observed that many defendants admitted to the charges, which simplified defence representation. He noted that convictions often arise from association with Boko Haram, even where active participation is absent, as association itself constitutes an offence under the Act.
Abubakar confirmed that some suspects were discharged and acquitted, underscoring the transparency of the process. He highlighted that pre-trial interviews were conducted in Maiduguri and Kainji to ensure compliance with statutory safeguards.
Security around the court premises was heightened, with suspects transported under heavy guard by DSS operatives, Nigeria Police, and Nigerian Army personnel.
The trials are scheduled to continue on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
… Federal High Court Jails Five Boko Haram Convicts, Begins Mass Trial of 500 Suspects in Abuja … Naijaonpoint.
