<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The United States has commended the Nigerian government for securing 386 convictions in terrorism-related cases, describing the development as a significant step towards justice and accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The commendation was issued by the U.S. Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulosin, a statement shared via X on Sunday, where the official praised Nigeria\u2019s efforts to fast-track terrorism trials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe United States commends the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe welcome the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in the courts, and we recognise this as an important step toward accountability and justice,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The U.S. further stressed the importance of transparent legal processes in tackling extremism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe believe that timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians,\u201d it added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The development follows the Federal Government\u2019s announcement that it secured 386 convictions out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed this to journalists at the conclusion of the ninth phase of the trials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn total, we brought about 508 cases. Of these 508, we were able to secure 386 convictions. Eight discharges, two acquittals and 112 adjourned to the next session or phase,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fagbemi added that the next phase of the trials had already been scheduled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDon\u2019t forget that this is the ninth phase. The 10th phase will come up between the 15th and the 18th of June by God\u2019s special grace,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The trial, which began on April 7, 2026, ended on April 10, 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He noted that over 500 suspects were arraigned for offences bordering on terrorism under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The proceedings involved 10 judges of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court and were conducted despite the Easter vacation period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fagbemi said the inclusion of discharges and acquittals reflected the government\u2019s commitment to due process and the rule of law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The latest convictions come amid ongoing international scrutiny of Nigeria\u2019s security situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In late 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a \u201cCountry of Particular Concern\u201d under the International Religious Freedom Act, citing concerns over violence linked to extremist groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Nigerian government rejected the designation, maintaining that the violence was driven by criminality and insurgency affecting both Muslims and Christians, rather than targeted religious persecution.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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