Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to take immediate steps to re-arrest 10 soldiers previously accused of aiding terrorism and to prosecute 400 suspected financiers of Boko Haram.
Falana made this demand in a letter addressed to the AGF, referencing previous reports from the Federal Government that suggested progress in identifying and detaining individuals funding terrorism in Nigeria.
He reminded the AGF of a 2021 statement from the Presidency, which confirmed that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) had uncovered 96 financiers of terrorism and was investigating over 400 individuals and entities. According to Falana, these suspects were reportedly arrested, and their cases handed over to the AGF for prosecution.
However, he expressed disappointment that the AGF’s office had failed to bring any of the suspected terror financiers to court, nor provided updates to the public regarding their fate. He also criticised the military’s decision to release the 10 soldiers allegedly found to be collaborating with terrorists without trial.
“The failure to prosecute these suspects is a serious blow to the fight against terrorism. It raises concerns about transparency and the government’s commitment to ending insecurity,” Falana said.
He urged the AGF to act in line with constitutional responsibilities by ensuring the suspects are prosecuted to serve justice and restore public confidence.
Falana concluded by giving the AGF a seven-day ultimatum to respond or face legal action.
