Abuja, Nigeria — Four suspects with alleged ties to the notorious terrorist leader, Bello Turji, pleaded not guilty to terrorism charges on Monday before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The defendants — Musa Muhammad Kamarawa, Abubakar Hashimu (also known as “Doctor”), Samuel Chinedu, and Lucky Chukwuma — faced an 11-count charge brought against them by the Federal Government. The charges, filed by the Department of Public Prosecutions, stem from alleged acts of terrorism.
Though eight individuals were listed in the case, only four appeared in court. Bello Turji, along with three others identified as Bashir Abdullahi, Aminu Muhammad, and Sani Lawal, remains at large. Abdullahi, who is the third defendant, was notably absent.
David Kaswe, representing the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), confirmed Abdullahi’s status as “at large” and apologized to the court for an oversight in the case file. Justice Nwite granted the oral application to amend Abdullahi’s status.
The 11-count charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024 and dated December 16, implicates the accused in acts of terrorism that allegedly jeopardize national security.
The trial is expected to continue, with the court setting a future date to hear further arguments and review evidence. Meanwhile, authorities continue their pursuit of the four fugitives, including Bello Turji, whose capture is deemed critical to dismantling the terror network.
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the judiciary to ensure justice is served and on security forces to close in on the elusive suspects.
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