Nigeria Govt to Arraign Five Suspected Terrorists Linked to Bello Turji in Abuja

The Federal Government is set to arraign five suspected terrorists allegedly linked to the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, at the Federal High Court in Abuja today.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the suspects, arrested by Nigerian security agencies, will face arraignment before Justice Emeka Nwite, a vacation judge, under the supervision of the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).

Previously scheduled for arraignment on Friday, proceedings were delayed as no defense lawyer appeared for the suspects. The AGF’s counsel, David Kaswe, requested a short adjournment to allow the defendants to secure legal representation. Justice Nwite subsequently fixed the arraignment for Monday.

The government has filed an 11-count charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024, against eight defendants—five in custody and three at large. Those present include Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (a.k.a. Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma, listed as the first to fifth defendants. Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal, all at large, are the sixth to eighth defendants.

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The charges, filed on December 16 by M.B. Abubakar, Director of the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, accuse the defendants of aiding terrorist groups led by Turji, Kachalla Halilu, Danbokolo, and others. Allegations include procuring and supplying illicit drugs, food items, and military gear, including uniforms, boots, and building materials, for terrorist camps in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna States.

In one count, Kamarawa, Muhammad (at large), and Lawal (at large) allegedly facilitated the purchase of a military gun truck from Libya in 2021, valued at approximately ₦28.5 million. The vehicle was purportedly supplied to terrorist Kachalla Halilu for use in terrorist activities.

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Another count alleges that in 2018, Kamarawa, Hashimu, and Abdullahi provided material support, including medical care and shelter, to Bello Turji after a violent attack on Tungar Kolo Village in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The charges contravene sections of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, which prescribes severe penalties for aiding and abetting terrorism.

The Federal Government has vowed to ensure a thorough prosecution of the suspects to uphold justice and deter further acts of terrorism.

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