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.