A security commentator, Paul Kato, has called for sweeping reforms in the handling of terrorism suspects in Nigeria, arguing that such individuals should be tried before military courts rather than the conventional civilian judiciary.
In a statement on Thursday, Kato maintained that terrorists do not qualify for protection under the Geneva Conventions, which outline rights and legal status for lawful combatants captured during armed conflict.
According to him, many terror suspects are arrested by intelligence agencies and kept in detention for years, only to receive what he described as reduced sentences compared to the severity of their crimes.
He criticised the financial burden placed on taxpayers who fund the detention, feeding and legal processes for individuals accused of mass killings and widespread destruction.
Kato referenced Article 4 of the Geneva Convention III, which grants Prisoner of War (POW) status only to combatants who meet four conditions: operating under a responsible commander, wearing a distinct and recognisable uniform, carrying arms openly, and conducting operations in line with the laws and customs of war.
He argued that non-state violent groups, including Boko Haram, ISIS affiliates, and other armed factions, do not meet these requirements and therefore cannot be classified as lawful combatants.
Emphasising his stance, Kato said terrorism suspects should not remain in the custody of intelligence agencies for long periods. Instead, he advocated their quick transfer to military detention facilities, followed by a court-martial process lasting no longer than six months. He added that individuals convicted of terrorism should face the highest penalties under military law.
Kato’s comments come amid ongoing national debate over the prosecution of terrorism cases and the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s criminal justice and security systems.
