Ex-Edo AG Calls for Full Sentences for Terrorism Convicts

On Sunday, Dr. Samson Osagie, the former Attorney General of Edo State, emphasized the necessity for individuals convicted under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, to serve their full sentences to deter future terrorist activities in Nigeria.

He expressed concerns regarding the potential for convicted terrorists to receive amnesty through executive orders, urging amendments to the Act to ensure they do not benefit from such clemency. Osagie recommended that the National Assembly act swiftly to amend the Act and Section 175 of the Constitution regarding the prerogative of mercy, specifically excluding those convicted of terrorism-related offenses.

Mr. Uwomano Aki, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers Forum, supported this view, stating that terrorism is a direct attack on national sovereignty and security.

He argued against granting executive clemency to individuals found guilty of terrorism. Mrs.

Adaobi Fortune, a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, also stressed that any consideration of amnesty should prioritize national interest over sentiment.