By Opeyemi Adelakun
The recent convictions secured in terrorism-related cases have offered Nigerians a rare sense of justice in a country long troubled by insecurity.
The sentencing of those involved in the Owo church massacre and individuals linked to the activities of a notorious bandit leader demonstrates that accountability is possible when security agencies, prosecutors and the courts work in concert.
While these convictions deserve commendation, they should not be treated as isolated victories. For too long, terrorism cases have suffered prolonged delays, weakening public confidence in the justice system and denying victims timely justice. The latest outcomes must therefore signal a new era of swift and decisive action against those who threaten national security.
The fight against terrorism cannot stop with those who carry out attacks. Financiers, informants, harbourers and other enablers play critical roles in sustaining violent networks and must face the full weight of the law. A terrorist’s weapon may cause the damage, but the sponsors often make the crime possible.
Authorities must strengthen intelligence gathering, financial surveillance and inter-agency cooperation to dismantle the structures that sustain terrorism. The recent convictions have shown that justice can prevail. The challenge now is to make such successes consistent and ensure that neither terrorists nor their sponsors find refuge anywhere in Nigeria.
The rule of law must remain the nation’s strongest weapon against terror. Justice delayed may embolden criminals, but justice delivered sends a message that crime will ultimately meet its consequence.
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