The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, had assembled a special panel of judges to preside over the cases. Some of the trial judges are Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu, Ekerete Akpan, among others.
The AGF represents the Federal Government, while Legal Defence for indigent suspects is being provided by the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria.
The development marks a push by the government to expedite delayed terrorism cases, with proceedings now taking place in Abuja rather than the military facility in Kainji, Niger State.
No fewer than 58 suspected terrorists were listed for trial on Monday before Justice Nwite.
They are Abba Bukar, Abba Manye, Gujja Mala Bukar, Brem Gonimi, Isa Mohammed, Lawali Dashiri Danke, Yau Tukur (Mai-Auduga), Bello Liman, aka Alhaji Bell Doctor, among others.
500 suspected terrorists were also tried between April 7 and April 10 at the FHC in Abuja.
Fagbemi told journalists that the 500 suspects were being prosecuted in Phase 9 of the mass trial of suspected terrorists in Abuja.
The AGF cited logistics reasons for the transfer of the cases to Abuja from Kainji.
“Whether the cases are tried in Kainji or Maiduguri, those to try terrorism suspects are judges of the Federal High Court.
“It is more convenient here; we have more courtrooms and facilities. We have 10 judges at a time, you know what it means. It means a lot,” Fagbemi said.
Do you think the government should continue prosecuting suspected terrorists or should pardon them? Share your thoughts in the comment below