A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Abubakar Abba until July 20, 2026, to decide whether he will change his plea regarding terrorism charges. Abba is currently facing trial alongside Mahmud Usman before Justice Emeka Nwite following investigations by the Department of State Services (DSS).
During a scheduled hearing on Thursday, Abba indicated he wished to withdraw his previous not guilty plea. After consulting with his lawyer, Husseina Tukur, he informed the court that he remained uncertain about his decision. Prosecution lawyer David Kaswe opposed further delays, noting that the defendant had raised the subject previously, and requested that the trial proceed.
Justice Nwite ruled that since this was the first formal request on the record, the court would allow Abba more time to finalize his position. The judge adjourned the case until July 20 to either receive the plea or continue the proceedings. The defendants, arrested by the DSS between May and July 2025, face 32 counts including kidnapping, illegal mining to fund terrorism, and the manufacture of improvised explosive devices related to the group Ansaru. While Usman was sentenced to 15 years for illegal mining, Abba has maintained a not guilty stance on all charges.
