FG Secures 653 Terrorism Convictions As Mass Trial Continues In Abuja

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed the development on Friday while speaking with journalists after attending some of the court proceedings.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Fagbemi explained that approximately 880 cases had been determined since the latest phase of the mass trial commenced. Of that number, 653 defendants had been convicted, while seven were acquitted and 27 others discharged.

The minister, however, stressed that the exercise was still ongoing and that the final figures would be announced after the proceedings concluded.

He described the exercise as one of the largest mass trials conducted since the process began, attributing the progress recorded to the cooperation and guidance of the judges presiding over the cases.

Fagbemi commended the judiciary, prosecution teams and defence lawyers for their contributions to the smooth conduct of the proceedings. He also acknowledged the efforts of relevant government agencies and other stakeholders involved in the exercise.

The Attorney-General further dismissed claims that journalists had been prevented from covering the proceedings, rejecting suggestions that media representatives had been barred from reporting on the trial.

The mass trial forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to prosecute individuals accused of terrorism-related offences, with authorities expected to release the final figures following the conclusion of the exercise.