By Joy Yesufu
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the swift prosecution of kidnappers, bandits and terror suspects as part of efforts to curb the escalating insecurity across the country.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said the government is 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.
Fagbemi spoke on Monday at the opening of the 2025/2026 legal year of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.
“At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity confronting our country,” he said.
“The judiciary must lend its weight to national efforts through firm and courageous adjudication that ensures those who threaten peace are held accountable.”
The minister noted that the administration views swift justice as a vital complement to ongoing military and intelligence operations adding that President Bola Ahmed 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 urged citizens to unite behind government efforts to combat insecurity, describing the moment as one requiring “collective resolve, not distraction.”
He also commended the Court of Appeal for innovations introduced during the 2024/2025 legal year, including special sittings across its divisions aimed at reducing case congestion.
He 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.
