Abuja: The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that victims of terrorism get justice. The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, gave the assurance at the launch of the Model Legal Provisions (MLP) for Victims of Terrorism, at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister was represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Babadoko. He stated that the event marked a significant step forward in the collective efforts to address the needs and rights of victims and survivors of terrorism. He emphasized Nigeria’s leading role in the global fight against terrorism and the severe impact terrorist attacks have had on individuals, families, and communities within the nation.
Chief Fagbemi highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of victims, acknowledging that terrorism has left a trail of suffering, loss, and trauma across the country. He committed to ensur
ing that the rights of victims are upheld and that justice is served. He also noted the government’s significant strides in counterterrorism efforts, such as the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, which includes provisions for the Victim Support Trust Fund.
He explained that Section 91 of the Act establishes the Victim Support Trust Fund to provide financial assistance and other support to victims of terrorism. Section 92 of the Act provides for establishing the Trust Fund Committee to administer the fund. Fagbemi assured that his office is committed to ensuring the effective implementation of these provisions and the Model Legal Provisions.
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, noted that since 2009, Nigeria has experienced the extreme consequences of terrorism, disproportionately affecting women, children, and youth. He described the horrific experiences victims have endured, including abductions, forced training, and exploitation, leading to trauma and stigmatisation.
L
aka emphasized that the launch of the MLP Project marks a significant advancement in supporting and protecting victims’ rights. The project aims to bolster Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute terrorist offences while ensuring robust support for victims.