Tinubu seeks end to inter-agency rivalry
The National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, said on Wednesday that the government has resumed mass trials of terrorism suspects in the country.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), stated in December 2023 that the Federal Government secured 366 convictions in the trial of Boko Haram terrorists conducted in 2017. In addition, he said 896 suspects were discharged for lack of evidence, while 61 other cases were adjourned for further hearing. In December 2023, the FG also secured the conviction of four Boko Haram financiers.
In a statement yesterday, the Head of Strategic Communication, NCTC-ONSA, Abu Michael, said the trial would be conducted in line with the international criminal justice system.
Michael stated that at least 300 suspects are on trial, with five judges presiding over the five courts and chambers established for the swift administration of justice. He added that the suspects were being represented by lawyers from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria.
Michael also noted that 800 cases had been reviewed, and charges had been prepared for thorough prosecution.
MEANWHILE, President Bola Tinubu has called for an end to the inter-agency rivalry among the country’s law enforcement agencies. Tinubu said the insecurity in the country was being carried out by “well-organised” non-state actors, adding that concerted efforts from the agencies were required to tackle the menace .
The president, who was represented by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bossun Tijani, spoke during the inauguration of the Nigeria Police Force National Cyber Crime Center in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to the President, “The security situation in the country is a complex blend of threats posed by well-organised non-state actors. Addressing it requires a concerted approach by all stakeholders within the security architecture. I therefore call for the elimination of inter-agency rivalries and urge law enforcement agencies to embrace a coordinated, collaborative approach.”
The president called for collaboration between the centre and the Office of the National Security Adviser to ensure a greater level of scrutiny of online activities
Speaking, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun said the centre has achieved a lot of results within the short period of its take off. Egbetokun also said 70 per cent of stolen funds and assets had been recovered by the centre.
