Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has cautioned federal and state governments against engaging in negotiations with terrorists and bandits, describing such actions as unlawful under Nigerian law.
Drivetvnews gathered that Falana gave the warning while delivering a keynote address at Amnesty International’s Second Annual General Meeting held in Abuja on June 13, 2026.
According to him, it is widely known that some government officials have held discussions with terrorist groups and armed bandits, leading to the pardon and rehabilitation of thousands of so-called repentant criminals, some of whom allegedly received financial rewards.
The senior advocate argued that groups such as Boko Haram and other proscribed organisations should be prosecuted rather than forgiven or compensated by the government. He maintained that the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act clearly criminalises any form of support, assistance, or participation in activities linked to terrorist organisations.
Falana referenced Section 22 of the law, which prescribes a minimum prison sentence of 20 years for individuals found guilty of arranging, participating in, supporting, or providing resources for meetings and activities connected to terrorist groups.
He stressed that authorities must uphold the law and ensure that members and collaborators of banned organisations are brought to justice instead of being rewarded through negotiation arrangements.
