The Nigerian government has resumed the mass trials for individuals accused of terrorism and other serious crimes against the state.
According to Michael Abu, spokesperson for the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the move is part of the government’s commitment to upholding social justice and transparency.
The trials, which kicked off this week, will be overseen by the Federal High Court of Nigeria and involve more than 300 suspects. Five experienced judges have been assigned to hear the cases in specially designated courts and chambers.
Prosecutors from the Complex Casework Group and defense attorneys from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria are also participating in the trials.
Abu revealed that more than 800 case files have been reviewed, resulting in 163 convictions, 882 discharges, and five acquittals between 2017 and 2018. In addition, efforts are underway to deradicalize and reintegrate culpable suspects into society.
The National Counter Terrorism Centre is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the success of the trials and support the government’s efforts to promote good governance and a just society.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
