ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The Nigerian government has confirmed that more than 700 individuals have been convicted and imprisoned for terrorism-related offenses following proceedings in a dedicated Special Terrorism Court.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris announced the figures during a press briefing in Abuja, stating that the convictions reflect Nigeria’s commitment to due process and judicial transparency in its counterterrorism efforts.
The Special Terrorism Court, established to expedite trials of suspects linked to insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has held eight sittings so far. Hundreds of cases have resulted in convictions, while thousands remain pending.
Idris said approximately 17,000 terrorism suspects are currently in custody across the country. He emphasized that the legal process is ongoing and that the government is working to ensure fair trials for all detainees.
“These convictions are not arbitrary,” Idris said. “They are the result of thorough investigations, evidence-based prosecutions, and judicial independence. Nigeria is showing the world that it can fight terrorism within the bounds of the law.”
The announcement comes amid international scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record, including its designation by the United States as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution. Idris rejected the designation, calling it “unjustified and politically motivated.”
He argued that the convictions demonstrate Nigeria’s adherence to the rule of law and counter claims of unlawful detention. “We are not holding people without trial,” Idris said. “We are prosecuting them in accordance with the law and respecting their rights.”
Reactions from civil society have been mixed. Human rights advocate Aisha Bello said the convictions are a step forward but urged transparency in the trial process. “We need to know that these convictions are based on credible evidence and not coerced confessions,” she said.
Security analysts welcomed the announcement but warned that convictions alone are not enough. “This is progress, but Nigeria must also invest in rehabilitation and reintegration programs for former insurgents,” said Kabiru Adamu, a counterterrorism expert based in Abuja.
Officials have not disclosed the identities of those convicted or the specific charges, citing national security concerns. However, the Ministry of Justice said more trials are expected in the coming months as the court continues its work.
