Plateau court says it can try Easter attack suspects
A Plateau State High Court in Jos has ruled it has the authority to try suspects accused of terrorism in connection with the Angwa Rukuba Easter 2026 attack. Justice Gedeliah Fwomyon dismissed objections raised by the defendants, who argued that only a federal court could handle such cases. The suspects, including Isa Umar Ibrahim and Auwalu Abubakar, were arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) between April 3 and April 10, 2026. The court also refused a request to transfer one of the suspects to a hospital, citing lack of evidence.
What we know
- Justice Gedeliah Fwomyon ruled that state high courts have jurisdiction to try terrorism offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
- Four suspects arrested by the DSS over the Easter 2026 attack on Angwa Rukuba challenged the court’s jurisdiction.
- The suspects were arrested between April 3 and April 10, 2026, and charged with criminal conspiracy and terrorism.
- The court rejected a motion by Auwalu Abubakar for transfer to Jos University Teaching Hospital, citing no medical evidence.
- Further proceedings were adjourned until October 15 and 21, 2026.
