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| Phase 7 trials signal Nigeria’s unwavering push for lawful justice |
National Counter Terrorism Centre officials confirmed launch on Wednesday in Abuja. Trials bring together judges and prosecutors and defence lawyers with security officers quite frequently. Speeding justice for alleged terror offences remains a primary aim now.
Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi noted that mass trials help the system handle many cases at once. He said this effort shows Nigeria’s commitment to fair trials under its laws.
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| Nigeria Phase 7 Mass Trials |
The Kainji mass trials began in 2018 after many terror suspects broke out of Maiduguri’s Giwa Barracks in 2014. Authorities then moved all detainees to the Wawa Cantonment at Kainji in late 2014.
Since then, the government has held six phases of mass trials. Each phase saw between 100 and 300 suspects tried at once. The trials focus on cases linked to Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other terror cells.
Lawyers note that mass trials speed up justice but can strain court resources. Still, they say the trials bring transparent process to many delayed cases.
Phase 7 will span six weeks, according to NCTC sources. It will cover over 200 new suspects arrested across the north-east and neighbouring states in 2024 and early 2025.
Each day, courts will hear an average of ten cases. Judges will review evidence from police and intelligence services. Defence counsel will be given full access to files and witnesses.
Security is tight. Military and police units guard the facility. Journalists and observers must pass through strict checks before entry.
Under Nigeria’s Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011, suspects have a right to counsel and a fair hearing. The Act allows special procedures when large numbers face similar charges.
Critics worry that mass trials risk hurried judgments. But officials reject that view. They say careful case management keeps fairness in focus.
Dr. Amina Suleiman, a legal scholar, says mass trials can fast-track justice for many. She notes they must still meet basic fair-trial standards. She adds that full disclosure of evidence is key.
Mr. Chinedu Eze, a security analyst, sees Phase 7 as a test of Nigeria’s justice system. He says success hinges on smooth coordination between courts and security agencies.
Phase 7 comes amid fresh terror threats in the north-east. Attacks on villages and military posts rose by 15 percent in the first half of 2025, per defence sources. Swift trials can help deter further violence.
Analysts believe fair, prompt convictions will sap morale in terror groups. They also expect it to boost confidence in government resolve.
Court officials face heavy case loads and limited space. Judges must balance speed with detailed review. Lawyers warn of possible delays if files grow too large.
Transportation of detained suspects from remote cells also poses risk. Authorities say extra convoys and airlifts will help move suspects safely.
If Phase 7 runs as planned, the government will move to Phase 8 in late August 2025. Each phase aims to clear at least 150 pending cases.
Officials hope that by end of 2026, all terror cases from the 2014–2023 period will be resolved. They say this will mark a major milestone in Nigeria’s fight against extremist violence.