Terror suspects to get expeditious trial in Nigeria Courts – AGF

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN has vowed expeditious trial of terror suspects, bandits and suspected kidnappers in order to serve justice in the country.

This development he said would go a long way in tackling insurgency and reducing the wave of insecurity in Nigeria.

Advertisements

He stated this in his address on Monday at the opening of the 2025/2026 legal year of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

The AGF said, no one can ignore the grave danger posed by insecurity confronting the nation today, hence, it was imperative to address the menace holistically by speeding up trial of criminal suspects.

Advertisements

He said: “Through firm, consistent, and courageous adjudication, the courts can ensure that those who threaten peace and stability are held accountable, that impunity is dismantled, and that the sanctity of human life and property is protected.”

Fagbemi noted that rather than focusing solely on detention or military engagements, the government is prioritising the prosecution of suspects linked to mass attacks, kidnapping-for-ransom, terror-financing, and extremist recruitment.

The AGF recognized the vital role of the judiciary in reinforcing national security of the nation, insisting that fast tracking trials of terror suspects will boost the judicial capacity and rejuvenate trust and confidence of judiciary in the eye of Nigerians.

He revealed the readiness of President Bola Tinubu to appoint more judges to the Federal High Court for expeditious trial of cases.

The AGF emphasised that effective administration of justice complements military and intelligence strategies and restores public confidence.

He said, “The swift administration of justice is a vital complement to our military and intelligence operations. This is a time for collective resolve, not distraction, as we work together to secure our nation.”

Fagbemi also lauded the Court of Appeal for its efforts in reducing backlog through special sittings and Fast Track Practice Directions, particularly in terrorism, human trafficking, and kidnapping cases.

“The initiative plays an essential role in the anti-terrorism battle of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration because prosecuting delays can extend periods of insecurity while damaging public trust in judicial procedures,” he stated.

Advertisements