The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Tuesday launched the Joint Case Team on Cybercrime to fight and revolutionise cybercrime in Nigeria.

Speaking on the motive behind its establishment, the AGF emphasised that the JCTC’s vision is founded on principles of synergy, coordination, and mutual respect among institutions dedicated to justice.

He described the creation of the JCTC as a collaborative effort to curb the menace of cybercrime.

The AGF made these remarks during the official launch of the JCTC and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on tackling cybercrime at the Federal Ministry of Justice Headquarters in Abuja.

He added that the JCTC aims to provide a coordinated and robust approach to combat cybercrimes, as outlined in the Cybercrimes Act 2015 (as amended).

The JCTC comprises representatives from the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrimes Centre, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, The Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Federal High Court.

The AGF highlighted the importance of a national legal framework to combat cybercrime but stressed that laws alone are insufficient.

He called for equipping, uniting, and empowering those responsible for interpreting, enforcing, and applying these laws to act swiftly, cohesively, and effectively.

“An effective criminal justice response requires seamless cooperation between relevant actors – the investigators and prosecutors,” he noted, adding that cybercriminals could exploit any lack of coordination.

The AGF clarified that the JCTC is not intended to usurp the statutory powers of individual members but rather to promote inter-agency collaboration and intelligence sharing.

“It envisions a justice system unencumbered by bureaucratic bottlenecks, driven by the common goal of achieving efficiency.

“Investigators and prosecutors will work side by side from the very onset of a case, aligning strategies, harnessing resources, harmonising efforts, building capacity, and collectively achieving desired results,” he said.

He charged JCTC members to uphold the sacred trust placed in them. “You are the torchbearers of a new era. You carry the expectations of your institutions and the hope of our nation. Walk in unity. Work with integrity. Serve with courage,” the AGF added.

The United Kingdom Minister of State for Home Affairs, David Hanson, commended the Nigerian government for launching the JCTC.

He noted that the UK pledges to support Nigeria’s efforts to tackle cybercrime and fraud, aiming to boost economic development and strengthen relations between the two nations.

Describing the signing of the MOU as historic, Hanson emphasised the importance of addressing issues related to cybercrime and fraud, which he described as significant impediments to economic growth and public confidence.

“We’ve been pleased to support and assist with the development of the JCTC. This initiative will help reduce cybercrime, encourage growth, and promote investment in Nigeria while fostering cooperation with the United Kingdom,” he said.

Hanson expressed confidence in the partnership between the two countries, stating,

“Cybercrime and fraud are major drags on economic growth and public confidence. Today’s milestone event marks an essential step in addressing these challenges.

“We stand ready to support Nigeria in tackling transnational issues that impact both our economies and citizens.”

In his goodwill message, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, represented by Justice Inyang Ekwo, noted that the event symbolised a collective resolve to confront the escalating threat of cybercrime.

“In an increasingly interconnected world, the insidious reach of cybercriminals poses a grave danger to our economies, institutions, and society,” he said.

Justice Tsoho assured that the Federal High Court would play its part in eradicating cybercrime. “This initiative underscores our commitment to upholding the rule of law in the digital age.

“We recognise the urgency of this issue and are fully prepared to ensure that perpetrators of cybercrimes are brought to justice,” he stated.

As the JCTC was officially launched, he reminded all present of the victims of cybercrime and the harm inflicted by these activities.

“Let this be a clear message to cybercriminals: their actions will not go unchallenged. We are united in our resolve to hold them accountable,” he concluded.