The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorism and other violent crimes across the country, declaring that it will continue to pursue all lawful measures to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), made this known on Monday while addressing journalists at the Federal High Court in Abuja during the ongoing trial of suspected terrorists.
PUNCH reports has it that, Fagbemi stated that the administration remains resolute in its determination to rid the country of terrorism and criminal activities threatening national peace and stability.
“We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that Nigeria becomes a safe haven for everyone,” he said.
According to the Attorney-General, the ongoing terrorism trials demonstrate the government’s seriousness in tackling insecurity. He noted that the current exercise represents the fourth phase of mass terrorism prosecutions since the inception of the present administration.
“The message is clear: terrorism in any form will not be tolerated or condoned. The government is committed to ensuring that those responsible for acts of terror face justice,” he added.
Fagbemi disclosed that more than 600 terrorism suspects are expected to face prosecution during the current phase of the trials.
He explained that approximately 490 suspects were scheduled for trial on Monday, while another 84 would appear before the court on Tuesday. He added that the figure excludes 102 cases carried over from the previous phase, bringing the total number of suspects involved to over 600.
The Justice Minister revealed that 10 judges have been assigned exclusively to handle terrorism-related cases in a bid to accelerate the judicial process while maintaining fairness and due process.
“We have dedicated judges who are focusing solely on terrorism matters. Their commitment is to ensure speedy trials without compromising legal safeguards and judicial integrity,” he said.
Fagbemi expressed confidence that the proceedings would be conducted transparently and efficiently, noting that several convictions had already been secured in previous phases of the trials.
The current round of hearings, which commenced on Monday, is expected to run through Thursday, with authorities optimistic about making significant progress in the prosecution of the suspects.
The mass trials form part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to combat terrorism, banditry and other security threats confronting the country.
Earlier in April, about 500 suspected terrorists were also arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja as part of efforts to strengthen accountability and enhance national security.