The exercise, which kicked off this week, was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in Abuja.
The Nigerian Government has officially begun Phase 7 of the Kainji Mass Trials, targeting suspected terrorists currently in detention.
The exercise, which kicked off this week, was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in Abuja.
According to the National Coordinator of NCTC, Major General Adamu Laka, the trials underscore Nigeria’s firm commitment to justice and the rule of law in its ongoing fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
Laka stated that the trials represent Nigeria’s unwavering pursuit of justice and a reaffirmation of its resolve to confront terrorism through lawful and transparent means.
He commended the collaboration between the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, legal practitioners, and international partners, calling it a united front in the national effort to combat terrorism.
Laka also highlighted the strides Nigeria has made in enhancing its criminal justice system to effectively prosecute terrorism-related cases.
He said the progress has contributed significantly to addressing concerns raised by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Nigeria’s capacity to handle such offences.
“Indeed, the advancements made through these trials have greatly contributed to Nigeria’s efforts toward exiting the FATF Grey List,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, as well as the Justices of the Federal High Court, for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to justice.
He also recognised the crucial contributions of international partners, investigators, legal teams, and support staff in advancing the trial process.
Representing the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Director of Public Prosecution, Mohammed Babadoko, lauded the collaborative efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and various local and international stakeholders for their sustained support.
Fagbemi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering justice to both victims and accused persons, in a manner that upholds the rule of law and fundamental human rights.