The Federal Government will arraign five suspected associates of notorious terrorist kingpin Bello Turji on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Details of the Arraignment
The suspects, arrested by security agencies, are to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite, a vacation judge, under the representation of the Attorney-General of the Federation’s office.
Initially scheduled for arraignment on Friday, proceedings were delayed as the suspects lacked legal representation. Counsel for the AGF, David Kaswe, requested a short adjournment, with Monday set as the new date.
Charges Against the Suspects
The five suspects—Musa Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (alias Doctor), Bashir Abdullahi, Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma—face an 11-count charge. Three other defendants, including Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal, remain at large.
The charges, filed on December 16, 2024, by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, M.B. Abubakar, include allegations of providing material and logistical support to terrorist groups led by Turji and other terrorist leaders.
Key Allegations
The accused are alleged to have supplied:
- Illicit drugs such as penta injections and cannabis.
- Military and police uniforms including camouflage, boots, and caps.
- Building materials like cement, iron rods, and zinc for terrorist camps in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna states.
Gun Truck Procurement
In one charge, Kamarawa, Muhammad, and Lawal were accused of aiding terrorism by acquiring a military gun truck from Libya in 2021 for N28.5 million. The truck was allegedly supplied to a terrorist, Kachalla Halilu, for acts of terrorism.
Medical Assistance to Turji
In another count, Kamarawa, Hashimu, and Abdullahi were charged with aiding terrorism in 2018 by providing medical treatment and shelter to Bello Turji after he sustained gunshot injuries during an attack on Tungar Kolo Village in Zamfara State.
Legal Framework
The charges are grounded in the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, with violations carrying severe penalties under sections 8, 17, and 18 of the Act.
Outlook
Monday’s arraignment marks a significant step in the Federal Government’s efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and bring collaborators to justice.
