By Favour Chioma
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, says the Federal Government has secured 860 terrorism-related convictions between 2017 and 2025, while 891 suspects were discharged within the same period in accordance with due legal processes.
Fagbemi made the disclosure on Tuesday while briefing journalists after a closed-door meeting with a visiting U.S. Congressman and the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., in Abuja.
The meeting, held at the request of the U.S. delegation, offered an opportunity for the Nigerian Government to provide clarity on the security situation in the country and to present what the AGF described as “facts grounded in law, not speculation.”
Security Challenges Not Religious AGF
Responding to lingering foreign concerns about alleged religious persecution in Nigeria, Fagbemi dismissed claims that the country’s security challenges are driven by religious motives.
“Our security issues are not religious in nature,” he said, noting that it was important for partners and observers to understand the complexities behind banditry, insurgency, and violent extremism across various regions.
The AGF’s comment comes against the backdrop of earlier international speculations, including former U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2020 designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged Christian persecution.
Convictions Reflect Rule of Law, Not Arbitrary Action
Fagbemi emphasised that the recorded convictions and discharges demonstrate the Federal Government’s adherence to due process in prosecuting terrorism cases.
“They are profiled. Those who have nothing to do with it are let off the hook, while those against whom we have a case are taken to court. It is the court that decides,” he said.
He added that government agencies fully comply with court rulings whether convictions or acquittals because “respect for the rule of law remains the foundation of the counterterrorism framework.”
Avoid Exaggeration of Security Issues, FG Urges
The AGF also cautioned the public and international observers against exaggerating Nigeria’s security challenges, saying such narratives can distort facts and undermine ongoing efforts.
Fagbemi maintained that the government continues to work with international partners and security agencies to strengthen the fight against terrorism while ensuring that rights and legal safeguards are upheld.
