CJN tasks Judges to curb terrorism, money laundering through strict application of laws

CJN tasks Judges to curb terrorism, money laundering through strict application of laws

By Solomon Onyilo 

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has charged  Judicial Officers in Nigeria to ensure they strict apply relevant laws to curb the rising challenges of counter-terrorism, money laundering, and trans-border crimes.  

The CJN gave the charge at the Workshop on money laundering and counter-terrorism for Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and Judges of Federal and State High Courts held in Abuja. 

The workshop, with the theme, "Evidence In Investigation, Prosecution, and Trial of Terrorism, Money Laundering and Trans-Border  Case," was aimed at building the capacity of judicial officers with current laws and procedures that will enhance their ability in handling money laundering, counter-terrorism, and trans-border crimes. 

The CJN noted that there exists a strong correlation between stable economies, credible International financial systems, and efficient judiciaries. 

He, therefore, urged judicial officers to ensure the use of the most relevant and current laws for guidance in admitting evidence and adjudicating over terrorism and money laundering. 

Justice Ariwoola specifically urged judicial officers to take note of the existence of the current laws as the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (2022) and Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. 

The CJN said, "it will not be out of place to emphasize that there is a correlation between transparent and efficient Judiciaries; stable economies and credible international financial systems. 

"This is because timely, transparent and efficient adjudication, including enforcement of laws which curb Terrorism and Money Laundering among others, creates incentives for investor confidence and availability of robust credits from the international community, thereby encouraging higher levels of economic development."

He charged them:"It behooves on you as judicial officers to be up-to-date in terms of applicable laws that will curb criminality, especially as it relates to counter terrorism, money laundering and trans-border crimes.

"In this light, the effective use of relevant and, most importantly, current laws for guidance in admitting evidence and adjudicating over terrorism and money laundering cases contribute to potency of your decision as judicial officers "