AGF Reaffirms FG’s Commitment to Making Nigeria Safe, Begins Fresh Terror Trials

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Monday reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to combating terrorism, stating that the administration would continue prosecuting suspected terrorists to safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians.

Fagbemi made the remarks at the commencement of a fresh phase of terrorism trials involving hundreds of suspects facing terrorism-related charges.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, the AGF said the proceedings demonstrated the government’s determination to confront terrorism and other threats to national security.

“The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see ongoing trials,” he said.

According to him, the latest proceedings mark the fourth phase of terrorism trials conducted since the current administration assumed office.

“Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated.

“We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe haven for everybody,” he said.

Fagbemi disclosed that nearly 600 suspects would be prosecuted during the current phase of the trials, which are expected to continue in the coming days.

Providing a breakdown of the figures, he said, “For this phase, the ones we have today, we have about 490. Tomorrow we will have 84. But this 84 does not include the 102 that was brought forward from the last phase.

“So in total, we have 600 plus to contend with for this phase, and we have been assured by the honourable judges that they will do their utmost to ensure that they clear this number for this phase,” he said.

The ongoing mass trial forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to prosecute individuals accused of terrorism, insurgency and related offences, as it intensifies efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.