Federal High Court Abuja Adjourns Trial of Two Ansaru Terrorist Leaders to January 2026

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has shifted the commencement of trial of two alleged leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group, Mahmud Usman and Abubakar Abba, to January 15, 2026.

Justice Emeka Nwite granted the adjournment following an appeal by the defence counsel, who requested more time to receive the charges and study the proof of evidence reportedly still in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), where the suspects are detained on the orders of the court.

The defence lawyer informed the court that the inability to access the defendants and review the case file had hampered proper preparation for trial. He therefore prayed the court to order that the suspects be moved to a correctional centre to ensure easier access and a hitch-free trial.

However, prosecution counsel David Kaswe opposed the request, explaining that the DSS has a procedure requiring the defence counsel to apply formally in writing for permission to see his clients and copy the prosecutor. He argued that the defence had yet to follow this protocol.

In a brief ruling, Justice Nwite held that in the interest of fair hearing, the court would consider the defence counsel’s submissions and allow additional time.

While adjourning the matter to January 15, 2026, the judge ordered the defendants’ lawyer to henceforth write to the DSS for permission to visit his clients and copy the prosecution in every communication.

Usman and Abubakar Abba are being prosecuted on a 32-count charge bordering on terrorism and economic crimes.
Usman has already pleaded guilty to count 10, which relates to economic offences, while he pleaded not guilty to the remaining 31 counts. Abubakar Abba pleaded not guilty to all 32 counts.