FG Resumes Mass Trials of Terrorism Suspects
The Federal Government announced on Wednesday the resumption of mass trials for individuals allegedly involved in terrorism and other serious crimes against the Nigerian State.
Abu Michael, spokesman for the National Counter Terrorism Centre, stated that this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to promoting social justice through a transparent administrative system.
Administered by the Federal High Court of Nigeria, the ongoing trials are aligned with the International Criminal Justice system and involve the Complex Casework Group (CCG) of the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. The trials are coordinated and supervised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
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Over 300 suspects are currently on trial, presided over by five reputable judges across five courts and chambers set up to expedite the process. The trials involve multiple stakeholders, including CCG prosecutors and defense counsel from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON).
To date, over 800 case files have been reviewed, with charges drafted for efficient prosecution to ensure justice is served. Previous trials from 2017 to 2018 resulted in 163 convictions, 882 discharges, and five acquittals. Inculpable suspects are being deradicalized, engaged in profitable ventures, and efforts to reintegrate them into society are ongoing.
The NCTC-ONSA remains dedicated to working with relevant authorities to fulfill its mandates and support the administration’s efforts toward achieving good governance and a just society.
Source: Vanguard
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/07/terrorism-fg-resumes-mass-trial-of-suspects-onsa/
