Tinubu Moves To Boost Anti-Terror Trials With More Federal High Court Judges

 

The Federal Government has renewed its push for a more decisive judicial response to insecurity, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu set to appoint additional Federal High Court judges to accelerate the trial of terror-related cases.

Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), disclosed this on Monday at the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Fagbemi, who described insecurity as the gravest threat to Nigeria’s stability, said the judiciary must reinforce national efforts by ensuring that suspects involved in terrorism, kidnapping and violent crimes are swiftly and effectively prosecuted.

“At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity that confronts our country,” he said. “The judiciary, as the guardian of justice and the custodian of the rule of law, must lend its weight to the fight through firm, consistent and courageous adjudication.”

The AGF stressed that the administration is shifting emphasis from prolonged detention and exclusive military action to vigorous, intelligence-backed prosecution. According to him, dismantling criminal networks involved in mass-casualty attacks, kidnapping-for-ransom, extremist recruitment and terror financing requires a justice system capable of delivering timely verdicts.

He noted that strengthening the capacity of judges is essential to curbing delays and rebuilding public confidence in the justice sector. “President Tinubu has resolved to appoint more Federal High Court judges to enhance the judiciary’s ability to handle terrorism and other serious criminal cases promptly and effectively,” he said.

Fagbemi commended the Court of Appeal for initiatives such as special sittings and Fast Track Practice Directions, which he said have reduced backlogs and expedited hearings on terrorism, kidnapping and human trafficking cases.

Describing these measures as critical to the administration’s security strategy, the AGF underscored the need for a harmonious working relationship between the judiciary and the executive. Mutual respect, he said, ensures that governance operates smoothly while preserving institutional independence.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law as a central pillar in the fight against insecurity