Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, has urged Nigerians to take a more active role in exposing both private individuals and public office holders who violate the provisions of the Anti-Torture Act of 2017. Falana emphasized that the law clearly outlines consequences for acts of torture and abuse, stressing that accountability must not be selective. According to him, citizens have a responsibility to speak up whenever violations occur, regardless of the status or influence of those involved. In a formal letter addressed to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Falana demanded urgent legal action against security personnel accused of grave misconduct. He specifically called for the immediate re-arrest and prosecution of 10 soldiers allegedly involved in the killing of three police officers in Taraba State. The senior lawyer maintained that failure to act decisively on such cases undermines public confidence in the justice system and weakens the rule of law. He noted that the seriousness of the allegations requires transparent investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws. Beyond the issue involving the soldiers, Falana also drew attention to a much broader concern relating to national security. He called on the Attorney-General to revisit and revive the prosecution of approximately 400 individuals accused of financing terrorism, whose cases were reportedly abandoned during the previous administration. According to Falana, allowing such cases to remain unresolved poses a significant threat to national stability. He argued that terrorism financing is a critical issue that must be addressed with urgency, as it directly fuels insecurity across the country. He further stressed that justice should not be delayed or denied due to political transitions or administrative changes. In his view, continuity in the prosecution of serious criminal cases is essential to demonstrate the government’s commitment to fighting impunity and upholding the law. Falana concluded by reaffirming that the enforcement of the Anti-Torture Act and the prosecution of terrorism-related cases are not optional duties but constitutional obligations. He insisted that decisive action in these matters would strengthen democratic institutions and restore public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.
