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Kainji, Niger State | By Prime Brief Media
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) , has declared that Nigeria will “fight with our blood” to defeat terrorism, as a new phase of mass trials begins for nearly 600 suspected terrorists at a special court in Kainji, Niger State.
The trials commenced on June 15, 2026, and are being conducted by the Federal High Court in a specially designated facility within a military detention centre.
The suspects are accused of various offences, including terrorism, belonging to proscribed groups (Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province – ISWAP), murder, kidnapping, and possession of illegal firearms.
Many of the suspects have been in detention for months or even years, pending the conclusion of investigations.
The trials are being conducted under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which allows for special court sessions and enhanced security measures.
AGF Fagbemi’s statement
In a statement issued to mark the start of the trials, AGF Fagbemi said:
“We will fight with our blood to make Nigeria safe. There will be no compromise. No sacred cows. Anyone found to have participated in terrorist acts will face the full weight of the law.”
He also assured that the trials would be fair and transparent, with access for defence lawyers, the media, and civil society observers.
Previous phases
This is not the first mass trial of terrorism suspects in Nigeria. In 2017 and 2018, over 1,600 suspects were tried in Kainji, with many convicted and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment.
However, critics have pointed out that the trials have been slow, and that many high‑profile suspects have either escaped or been released for lack of evidence. Human rights groups have also raised concerns about the conditions of detention and the right to a fair trial.
Reaction
The National Security Adviser (NSA) welcomed the start of the trials, describing it as “a major step towards accountability and justice for victims of terrorism.” Families of victims of terrorist attacks have expressed mixed feelings.
“It is good that they are being tried,” a woman who lost her son in a Boko Haram attack told us. “But it will not bring back my son. And we have seen this before. I will believe it when I see convictions.”
What happens next
The trials are expected to run for several weeks. Proceedings are being held in camera for security reasons, but summaries will be released by the Ministry of Justice.
The AGF has promised that the trials will be expedited, and that those found guilty will be sentenced swiftly. For now, Nigeria watches.
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