By Grace Ololo
The Publisher of Newsxtra Magazine, Uloma Peace Okorie, has called on the Federal Government to establish special courts to handle cases involving terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers, and other violent criminals, saying the move would guarantee speedy justice for victims and strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
Speaking in Abuja, Okorie expressed concern over the slow pace of trials in conventional courts, noting that prolonged legal processes often deny victims timely justice.
According to her, the creation of specialized courts would fast-track the prosecution of criminal cases and help restore public confidence in the nation’s justice system.
“The Federal Government should urgently consider establishing special courts for the trial of terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent criminals. This will help to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and efficiently to victims who have suffered immense pain and loss,” she said.
Okorie noted that while security agencies continue to make arrests and record operational successes against criminal elements, delays in prosecution often weaken the overall criminal justice process.
“Our security agencies are working tirelessly to apprehend criminals. However, when cases remain in court for years without conclusion, it affects public confidence and reduces the deterrent effect of the law. Justice delayed is justice denied,” she stated.
The veteran journalist maintained that victims and their families deserve timely justice and closure after enduring traumatic experiences.
“Many families have lost loved ones to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery. These victims should not have to wait endlessly for justice. Special courts will help to reduce unnecessary delays and ensure that offenders are brought to justice within a reasonable time,” Okorie added.
She further explained that special courts would help decongest regular courts and enable judges with relevant expertise to focus on serious criminal and security-related matters.
“This is not about denying anyone their constitutional rights. It is about creating an efficient judicial process that balances fair hearing with the urgent need to protect society and deliver justice to victims,” she said.
Okorie therefore urged the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to work together to establish a legal framework for the creation of special courts as part of broader reforms aimed at tackling insecurity and strengthening the administration of justice in Nigeria.
“A nation that punishes crime swiftly and fairly sends a strong message to criminals and reassures law-abiding citizens that the government is committed to protecting them. This is the direction Nigeria should take,” she concluded.Caption: Publisher of Newsxtra Magazine, Uloma Peace Okorie, calls for the establishment of special courts to ensure speedy prosecution of terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and armed robbers, saying justice delayed is justice denied.