The Federal Government’s call for quicker handling of terrorism cases has stirred fresh attention in Abuja, as officials insist that Nigeria’s security crisis demands urgent action.
The appeal was made on Monday by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), during the opening of the Court of Appeal’s 2025/2026 Legal Year.
The development, however, has raised new conversations about how quickly justice can realistically be delivered within the current system.
Fagbemi said the country’s fight against insecurity must involve every sector, especially the courts.
He stressed that the justice system cannot work in isolation, and that “the nation’s security challenges, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to kidnapping, banditry and violent crime, require urgent and coordinated action across all sectors, including the justice system.”
His comment added weight to the government’s ongoing efforts to accelerate terrorism cases, a move seen as both bold and long overdue.
Moreover, the AGF noted that slow trials often weaken the impact of military and intelligence operations.
He explained that “swift and consistent adjudication would ensure accountability, dismantle impunity and reinforce public confidence in the rule of law.”
Fagbemi added that the government intends to appoint more judges to the Federal High Court to ease the pressure on the system.
In addition, he said the new appointments would help reduce case congestion and support timely rulings.
The plan is expected to receive attention within the judicial community, as many courts have been overwhelmed by heavy workloads.
Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, assured judicial officers that better working and living conditions are being prioritised.
He announced new housing projects for judges, as well as perimeter fencing for the Supreme Court complex.
Furthermore, he revealed that several infrastructure upgrades are underway to support smooth judicial functions.
Wike stated that improved accommodation and safety would help judges “perform their duties more efficiently,” adding that the Tinubu administration remains focused on wide justice-sector reforms in the new legal year.
The government’s call to accelerate terrorism cases comes at a time when public concern about insecurity remains high.
