The Federal Government has secured roughly 150 convictions in just the first 48 hours of its accelerated mass terrorism trials, according to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
Fagbemi shared these updates on Tuesday during a briefing with journalists at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where 10 judges are concurrently presiding over the extensive proceedings.
The minister revealed that the current phase of the judicial exercise kicked off on Monday, seeing about 160 trials on its opening day alone and resulting in approximately 150 convictions.
“Yesterday, we had about 160 trials. I think about 150 convictions,” Fagbemi told reporters.
By Tuesday, the scale of the operation expanded, with nearly 300 cases brought before the courts and an additional 84 expected to wrap up by the close of the day.
“Whatever we can do, or wherever we stop today, we’ll continue tomorrow and also on Thursday. So it’s still ongoing,” the minister noted.
Fagbemi urged the public to remain patient as the judicial process unfolds, emphasizing that the mass trials underscore the administration’s unwavering dedication to justice, accountability, and the rule of law.
Speaking earlier on Monday, the AGF highlighted that this marks the fourth wave of mass terrorism trials launched under the current administration, serving as a stern warning that the government will not overlook acts of terror.
“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.
“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,” Fagbemi added.
The high-profile prosecution is being steered personally by the AGF, while Aliyu Abubakar, the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, is leading the defence team.
To handle the immense volume of cases, the Federal High Court has mobilized multiple jurists, including Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu, and Ekerete Akpan,who are conducting the hearings simultaneously across several Abuja courtrooms.
This intensive phase is scheduled to run through Thursday, forming part of a broader, week-long judicial crackdown.
