Terror trial: Ansaru emir, deputy plead guilty to 32 terrorism charges

Two suspected senior commanders of Ansaru, including the group’s self-styled emir, Mahmud Usman, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, on Monday changed their plea and admitted guilt to a 32-count terrorism charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja

Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, Abbas, and Mukhtar, alongside Abba, also referred to as Mahmud al-Nigeri and Malam Mamuda, had initially pleaded not guilty when they were arraigned by the Department of State Services (DSS) in September 2025.

Bala Dakum, Their lawyer, informed Justice Emeka Nwite that the defendants had, after consultations, decided to change their pleas.

The court subsequently allowed the charges to be read again, following no objection from the DSS counsel, David Kaswe.

The development marks a major shift in the ongoing prosecution of the suspected Ansaru leaders, who are facing allegations bordering on terrorism-related activities and other offences.

Usman had earlier pleaded guilty to one of the charges relating to illegal mining activities allegedly linked to the funding of terrorism and arms acquisition, for which he was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment.

He had, however, denied the remaining counts, while Abba maintained a not-guilty plea to all charges before Monday’s development.

More details later….