The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration faced 625 court cases over the past 12 months. This was disclosed during the presentation of the Federal Ministry of Justice's scorecard, marking the first year of Tinubu's administration.
Fagbemi highlighted the Ministry's responses to cases filed in States, Federal, and ECOWAS Courts, emphasizing that an effective justice system is measured by the strategic measures adopted to avoid litigation. He noted that through effective defense strategies, arbitration, mediation, and diligent prosecution, the Ministry saved the country from substantial debt liabilities. In the past year, the Ministry received and treated 593 requests for legal advice and petitions, securing 235 judgments and 160 convictions for criminal offenses, including 87 terrorism cases.
The AGF also reported significant legal and anti-corruption achievements, including the recovery of £2,125,944 from the Bailiwick of Jersey, earmarked for the Abuja-Kano Road project, and a $50 million settlement with Glencore International A.G. for penalties and compensation. Additionally, the Ministry vetted 485 contracts and PPP projects to ensure value for money and eliminate corruption.
Agencies under the Ministry, such as the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), made notable strides. The NHRC handled 2,849,203 complaints on human rights issues, while NAPTIP secured 65 convictions and rescued 1,600 victims of human trafficking. The National Legal Aid Council managed 5,081 cases involving indigent citizens, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) seized 959,917.30 kg of illicit drugs, arrested 13,798 suspected traffickers, and secured 3,247 convictions.
Fagbemi praised the collaborative efforts of the justice sector in achieving these significant gains and ensuring effective governance and service delivery.
