FG insists security challenges not religious as Nigeria records 860 terrorism convictions, 891 acquittals

Lateef Fagbemi, (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice

The Federal Government has clarified that Nigeria’s security challenges are not driven by religion, noting that between 2017 and 2025, the country secured 860 terrorism convictions while 891 suspects were acquitted.

Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, made the clarification after a closed-door meeting with a U.S. Congressman and the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., in Abuja on Tuesday.

Fagbemi emphasised that the government is making concerted efforts to combat terrorism and all forms of violent extremism across the country.

“This meeting provided an opportunity for the federal government to present its perspective on terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, and for the visiting U.S. lawmaker to assess the situation firsthand,” he said.

The AGF also outlined the government’s approach to prosecuting terrorism-related cases. Between 2017 and 2025, Nigeria recorded 860 convictions and 891 acquittals in such cases, reflecting adherence to due process.

“We don’t just arrest people and detain them. Those with no involvement are released, while cases against suspects are brought before the courts, which decide their fate. We comply with all court decisions, whether convictions or acquittals,” Fagbemi explained.

He urged the public not to exaggerate the security situation, insisting that Nigeria’s problems are not religious in nature.

Read also: Tinubu calls for global partnership to defeat terrorism

This clarification comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump’s October declaration labeling Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.

Fagbemi stressed that while Nigeria faces security challenges, these are not motivated by religion, and the government remains committed to addressing them within the framework of the law.

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