44 Convicted in Kainji Terrorism Trial as Nigeria Strengthens Justice Response to Terrorism

In a major push against violent extremism, 44 individuals have been convicted in Phase 7 of the Kainji Detention Facility Terrorism Trial, according to Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC).

This latest round of trials underscores the federal government’s growing determination to dismantle terror financing networks and bring justice to victims of extremist violence.

“With this round, Nigeria has now secured 785 convictions linked to terrorism and its financing,” said Michael Abu, Head of Strategic Communication at the NCTC, Office of the National Security Adviser.

Four Federal High Court judges presided over the hearings, with ten of the 54 cases adjourned for later judgment. The 44 convictions handed down resulted in prison terms ranging from 10 to 30 years, all with hard labor.

Abu emphasized that the verdicts reflect the severity of the crimes, including kidnapping, destruction of places of worship, murder, and assault, often involving women and children.

Since launching these specialized trials at the Kainji military facility, the country has seen a ramp-up in the prosecution of terror-related cases.

In Phase 6 alone, 200 terrorists were convicted out of 237 cases, some receiving life sentences or the death penalty.

These efforts are part of Nigeria’s broader campaign to “confront terrorism through lawful and transparent means,” said Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, NCTC National Coordinator.

The Attorney General of the Federation, represented by the Director of Public Prosecution, also reiterated the nation’s “unwavering commitment to justice.”