Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has emphasised that the swift administration of justice is a critical complement to Nigeria’s military and intelligence efforts against terrorism and organised crime.
Speaking at the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2025/2026 legal year of the Court of Appeal, Fagbemi stressed that timely prosecution of suspects involved in mass-casualty attacks, kidnap-for-ransom networks, extremist recruitment, and terror-financing activities is central to national security.
Fagbemi noted that indiscriminate detention and reliance solely on battlefield operations are insufficient to tackle insecurity. “The judiciary, as the guardian of justice and custodian of the rule of law, must lend its weight to national efforts to combat insecurity.
Fagbemi Calls For Consistent and Courageous Judgements
“Through firm, consistent, and courageous adjudication, the courts can ensure that those who threaten peace and stability are held accountable, impunity is dismantled, and human life and property are protected,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the importance of the Court of Appeal’s Fast Track Practice Directions, which have expedited appeal hearings for terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping, and other serious crimes. He said the initiative helps reduce case backlogs while demonstrating that terrorism faces immediate and decisive legal action.
FG to Appoint More Federal High Court Judges
Fagbemi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in combating terrorism.
He announced plans for the immediate appointment of additional judges of the Federal High Court to strengthen national counter-terrorism efforts and ensure prompt handling of terrorism-related cases.
The Attorney-General also called on citizens to unite in confronting the scourge of terrorism, stressing that collective resolve is essential to securing the nation.
Commercial Cases Key to National Prosperity
While acknowledging the prominence of political cases in public discourse, Fagbemi underlined the importance of commercial litigation for national growth, urging courts to accord accelerated hearings to commercial disputes that directly affect the economy, investor confidence, and public prosperity.
He reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the fight against corruption, highlighting ongoing institutional support for the EFCC, ICPC, and the Code of Conduct Bureau.
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Additionally, Fagbemi praised the work of the Corruption and Financial Crime Cases Trial Monitoring Committee, chaired by Justice Suleiman Galadima, CFR, for reinforcing public confidence in the judicial process.
The Attorney-General further stressed that the administration of justice must evolve to meet societal demands, pointing to reforms through the National Policy on Justice and ongoing constitutional review.
He further encouraged the judiciary to contribute to these initiatives to strengthen access to justice and ensure the constitutional framework reflects the realities and aspirations of Nigerians.
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On modernization, Fagbemi urged courts to embrace technology, including digital filing, virtual hearings, and case management, to enhance efficiency and access to justice.
He concluded by affirming the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, independence, and efficiency of the judiciary, urging all stakeholders to rise above challenges and embrace the higher calling of justice.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
