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 country.
The government believes that prompt trial of the suspected criminals by courts would help 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 said this, noted 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.”