The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, December 22, 2025, approved the Federal Government’s application to reopen a terrorism prosecution against five suspects accused of providing material support to the notorious bandit and terror kingpin, Bello Turji.
Justice Emeka Nwite granted the Attorney‑General of the Federation’s motion to revive the case, allowing it to proceed on its substantive merits after earlier adjournments and procedural delays.
The suspects are alleged to have supplied drugs, food, military‑style clothing, and other logistical support to armed groups linked to Turji’s network.
The five defendants are expected to be formally arraigned and enter their pleas in early 2026 as the court sets a fresh timetable for trial.
The move underscores the government’s intensified focus on dismantling terror financing networks that sustain banditry in Northwest Nigeria.
BACKGROUND
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The prosecution, originally filed on December 16, 2024, accused the suspects of providing material support to terrorism between 2018 and 2022 across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kaduna states.
Four of the suspects were initially remanded following their first court appearance and had their bail applications denied amid concerns over national security and potential interference with witnesses.
The reopening of the case is a critical step in ensuring that individuals allegedly financing terrorism are held accountable under the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act 2013, which prescribes severe penalties upon conviction.
The Federal High Court is expected to manage a structured schedule for the trial in the coming months.