*As mass trials intensify in Abuja

The Federal Government has recorded approximately 150 convictions within the first two days of its latest phase of mass terrorism trials, according to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

Fagbemi made the disclosure on Tuesday while speaking with journalists at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the large-scale trials are being conducted simultaneously before 10 judges of the court.

The AGF stated that the current phase, which commenced on Monday, had already recorded about 160 trials on the first day alone, leading to roughly 150 convictions.

“Yesterday, we had about 160 trials. I think about 150 convictions,” Fagbemi told journalists.

He further explained that proceedings on Tuesday brought approximately 300 cases before the courts, with another 84 cases expected to be concluded before the end of the day.

“Whatever we can do, or wherever we stop today, we’ll continue tomorrow and also on Thursday. So it’s still on-going,” he said.

The Minister appealed for patience from members of the public as the exercise continues, stressing that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the rule of law.

On Monday, the AGF had said the on-going phase represents the fourth round of mass terrorism trials under the current administration, describing the exercise as a clear signal that terrorism in any form would not be tolerated.

“The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see on-going trials.

“Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated,” Fagbemi added.

The prosecution is being personally confucted by the AGF, while the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, heads the defence team.

The trials are being handled by multiple judges of the Federal High Court, including Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, Musa Liman, James Omotosho, Obiora Egwuatu, and Ekerete Akpan, with proceedings taking place concurrently across several courtrooms in Abuja.

The current phase of mass trials is expected to run through Thursday, with the overall exercise scheduled to last one week.