The federal government has affirmed its commitment to speedy trial of kidnappers, bandits and terror suspects currently making life unbearable for the citizens through threat to their lives in various parts of the nation.
The government claimed that prompt trial of the suspected
criminals by courts would help the country reduce the rate of criminality in
all parts of the country.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
(AGF), Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, who made the appeal said that government
rather than resorting to detention or battlefield engagements, is focusing on
the timely prosecution of suspects implicated in mass-casualty attacks,
kidnap-for-ransom networks, extremist recruitment and terror-financing
activities.
Fagbemi spoke on Monday, at the 2025/2026 legal year of the
Court of Appeal holding in Abuja.
He said, “At this solemn juncture in our national life, it
is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity that confronts our
country.
“From insurgency and terrorism to banditry, kidnapping, and
violent crimes, these threats imperil not only the safety of our citizens but
also the very fabric of our constitutional democracy.
“The judiciary, as the guardian of justice and the custodian
of the rule of law, must lend its weight to national efforts to combat
insecurity.
“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 said the federal government remains committed to
combating terrorism through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies
adding that it recognises the swift administration of justice is a vital
complement to military and intelligence operations.
The AGF also said the government was mindful that speedy
trial can only be achieved by enhancing the capacity of the judges who would
handle this cases and other cases in the docket of our courts.
Consequently, he hinted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is
committed to the immediate appointment of additional judges of the Federal High
Court to reinforce and boost the national counter-terrorism efforts and ensure
that terrorism-related cases and other cases are handled promptly and
effectively.
The AGF called on all citizens to unite in confronting the
scourge of terrorism, adding “This is a time for collective resolve, not
distraction—as we work together to secure our nation.
Fagbemi expressed happiness with the Court of Appeal for the
achievements recorded in the 2024/2025 legal year, especially its special
sittings across its divisions to tackle case congestion and expedite justice.
He said the innovation has significantly reduced the backlog
and demonstrated responsiveness to public concerns about delays, thereby
promoting access to justice.
“The Court of Appeal’s Fast Track Practice Directions have
been of immense value in speeding up appeal hearings for cases involving
terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping and similar serious crimes.
“The practice directions represent an effort to reduce case
backlogs while ensuring quick resolution of terrorism-related offenses. 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.
“The judicial system’s effectiveness strengthens when
terrorism cases receive swift hearings and resolutions, which demonstrates that
terrorism faces immediate and decisive legal action.
Fagbemi expressed happiness that the Court has sustained an
independent yet healthy relationship with the executive arm of government
adding “This delicate balance—marked by mutual respect, institutional
independence, and constructive engagement has ensured that the separation of
powers is preserved while the machinery of governance functions harmoniously”.
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