US Commends Nigeria Over 386 Terrorism Convictions
The United States has welcomed Nigeria’s successful prosecution and conviction of 386 terrorism
suspects in a recent mass trial, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening accountability and justice in the fight against terrorism.
The commendation was issued on Sunday, April 12, 2026, by Massad Boulos, US Senior Advisor for Arab
and African Affairs.
In a statement shared on X, Boulos said the US welcomes the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in
cases that had previously faced significant delays in the courts.
The convictions were announced by Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi
(SAN), on Friday, April 10, 2026.
Fagbemi revealed that out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the
Federal High Court during a four-day mass trial (the ninth phase), 386 resulted in convictions.
Eight defendants were discharged, two were acquitted, and 112 cases were adjourned to the next
session.
Fagbemi described the outcome as a strong message that “Nigeria has no space for heinous crimes like
terrorism,” adding that the mass trial and subsequent imprisonment of the convicts would serve as a
deterrent to criminals.
Boulos noted that the expedited handling of these long-pending cases demonstrates Nigeria’s
commitment to accelerating justice in terrorism matters.
He urged Nigerian authorities to sustain judicial reforms and maintain momentum in clearing backlogs
to ensure timely accountability.
The mass trial involved suspects linked to groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP. Many of the
defendants reportedly pleaded guilty during the proceedings, which contributed to the high conviction
rate.
This development comes amid ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria’s North-East and North-West
regions, where insurgency and banditry continue to pose security challenges.
The US has in the past collaborated with Nigeria on capacity building for law enforcement, intelligence,
and judicial processes in counter-terrorism.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
