Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has criticized the Federal and State Governments for negotiating with terrorists and bandits instead of prosecuting them in line with Nigerian law.
Speaking at Amnesty International’s Second Annual General Meeting in Abuja, Falana said it has become common practice for government officials to hold discussions with insurgents and bandits, leading to the forgiveness and reintegration of thousands of so-called repentant fighters, some of whom reportedly received financial support.
According to him, terrorist groups such as Boko Haram have already been proscribed under Nigeria’s Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, meaning their members should face prosecution rather than being rewarded or granted amnesty. He argued that the law makes it a serious offence to participate in or facilitate meetings connected to terrorist groups.
Falana further stated that governors do not have the legal authority to pardon terrorists or bandits. He explained that suspects arrested for terrorism-related offences should be prosecuted by the Attorney-General of the Federation and, if convicted, sentenced in accordance with the law before any consideration of clemency can arise.
The senior lawyer also referenced provisions of the anti-terrorism law, which prescribe severe penalties for individuals who knowingly support, organize, attend, or facilitate activities linked to terrorist groups.
He warned that granting pardons to terrorists and bandits accused of kidnappings, killings, attacks on schools, and other violent crimes could undermine justice, public safety, and national security. Falana maintained that accountability for such offences is essential to protecting victims and upholding the rule of law.
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