Tinubu Urges Government To Classify Kidnappers As Terrorists Following Escalating Abductions

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly denounced the abhorrent activities carried out by kidnappers nationwide. In a statement released on Tuesday through his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu emphasized that individuals engaged in such heinous acts should be classified as terrorists.

The President made this declaration during a Ramadan dinner with members of the Federal judiciary, led by Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. The event was attended by both serving and retired judicial officers, including former CJNs, Justice Mahmud Mohammed and Justice Walter Onnoghen.

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to combating banditry, President Tinubu labeled those resorting to kidnapping as cowards, incapable of facing the might of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He asserted, “We must treat kidnappers as terrorists. They are cowardly, seeking soft targets like schools to perpetrate their crimes and cause unrest.”

Furthermore, President Tinubu pledged his administration’s dedication to implementing reforms aimed at enhancing the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers. He acknowledged the judiciary’s vital role in upholding the integrity of the judicial branch and vowed to support their endeavors.

In response, the Chief Justice of Nigeria lauded the President for his efforts in hosting judicial officers for the Ramadan dinner, his commitment to judicial reforms, and his strides in improving the welfare of judicial officers. He offered prayers for the success of the President’s administration and praised the appointment of a full complement of 21 justices to the Supreme Court as unprecedented.

Additionally, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for forwarding the executive bill titled “Judicial Office Holders, Salaries and Allowances, etc, Bill 2024” to the National Assembly.