FG’s Push for Speedy Trial of Terror Suspects

One thing that cannot be denied in the country today is the fact that the designation of Nigeria as ‘Country of Particular Concern’ by the United States President, Mr. Donald Trump, and his threats of invading the country have suddenly woken the Nigerian government up  from its long slumber.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), last week gave an assurance that the federal government would be committed to the swift prosecution of kidnappers, bandits and terror suspects as part of efforts to curb the escalating insecurity across the country.

Speaking last Monday at the opening of the 2025/2026 legal year of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, Fagbemi said government was prioritising timely prosecution over prolonged detention or exclusive reliance on military operations. He stated that accelerated trials for suspects linked to mass-casualty attacks, kidnap-for-ransom syndicates, extremist recruitment and terror financing would help dismantle criminal networks and reduce impunity.

 “At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity confronting our country. The judiciary must lend its weight to national efforts through firm and courageous adjudication that ensures those who threaten peace are held accountable,” he said.

The minister noted that President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate appointment of additional Federal High Court judges to strengthen national counter-terrorism efforts and speed up the handling of terrorism-related cases.

Fagbemi said the court’s Fast-Track Practice Directions for terrorism, kidnapping and human-trafficking cases have significantly improved the pace of justice delivery. According to him, swift and decisive adjudication builds public confidence and reinforces the nation’s resolve to confront terrorism through the rule of law.

Before Trump’s threat, Nigerians were being killed and kidnapped almost on a daily basis without the perpetrators being arrested or prosecuted.

Nigeria was the only country where bandits could invade a community and wipe out the residents and disappear into the air.

Those enabling these terrorists live in the country, yet no law enforcement agency has summoned the courage to bring them to justice.

Nigeria has become a country with no consequences for wrongdoing, as people with criminal intent are emboldened to perpetrate atrocities with impunity.

This is why the AGF must march words with actions. Nigerians are tired of rhetoric.