The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to prosecuting terrorism suspects, declaring that the administration will not relent in its efforts to safeguard the country.
Fagbemi made the statement on Monday in Abuja at the commencement of another phase of terrorism trials involving hundreds of suspects facing terrorism-related charges.
Addressing journalists, the AGF said the ongoing trials demonstrate the government’s determination to confront terrorism and other security threats head-on.
“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 more than 600 suspects are expected to face trial during the current phase.
“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 mass trial forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to prosecute individuals accused of terrorism, insurgency and related offences, while strengthening efforts to combat insecurity across the country.