Investigation and Prosecution of Terrorism Under the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013

Abstract

Terrorism despite being a global phenomenon has remained a subject matter that resisted social scientists efforts in proffering an acceptable definition. The rise of the dreaded Islamist group “Boko Haram�? formally known as Jama’tu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, in 2009, changed the dynamics of terrorism in Nigeria. This amongst the activities of other persons and group propelled the Nigerian Government to enacting the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011. This piece of legislation was amended in 2013 as Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013. The Work proceeds in five unequal parts. The work took a look at investigations and prosecution of terrorism offences under the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013. It considers reactive and proactive investigation. Acts that constitute terrorism acts are highlighted with discussion of issues that arises in pre-trial and trial of terrorism offences. The roles of the National Security Adviser and the Attorney-General of the Federation in Prosecuting Offences of Terrorism are highlighted in this work, even as a clarion call is made for synergy and cooperation between the office of the National Security Adviser and the Attorney-General of the Federation in ensuring effective investigation and prosecution of terrorism offences. Capacity building of all state actors (Security and law enforcement agencies) must be vigorously pursued.