Twelve terrorism convicts have been sentenced to death by hanging following a series of successful prosecutions led by the State Security Service (SSS), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism and other violent crimes.

The convictions were secured in proceedings before the Federal High Court and several state high courts, where the defendants were found guilty of offences including terrorism, kidnapping, murder, arms trafficking, terrorism financing, and conspiracy.

Among the most notable cases, four of the convicts were sentenced to death for their involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. The attack claimed the lives of more than 40 worshippers and left over 100 others injured.

In addition to the death sentences, dozens of other defendants received prison terms ranging from two years to life imprisonment for offences linked to terrorist activities, gun running, and providing material support to terrorist organisations.

According to the SSS, the convictions are part of the Federal Government’s sustained efforts to prosecute terrorism-related offences through the judicial process and strengthen national security.

The agency described the judgments as a demonstration of its commitment to ensuring accountability for individuals involved in acts of terrorism and other serious crimes.

The security agency also stated that it continues to review inherited detention cases to ensure that those wrongfully detained are identified and released where appropriate, while maintaining pressure on individuals responsible for threats to national security.

The latest convictions are expected to reinforce ongoing counterterrorism operations and underscore the government’s determination to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and organised crime across the country. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.