Target: Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Nigeria
Goal: Pursue substantial penalties for proven trafficking in pangolin scales, elephant ivory, and other wildlife parts.
Pangolin scales and elephant ivory move through trafficking networks that turn wild animals into shipments for overseas buyers. A six-year investigation by the Environmental Investigation Agency describes suspected organized trade, bribery, and financial arrangements that warrant scrutiny beyond the person found carrying a consignment.
The report identifies Nigeria as a significant transit hub and alleges that traffickers adapt routes and concealment methods as enforcement changes. It also acknowledges improvements in detection and enforcement. Its allegations require official examination.
A seizure interrupts a shipment; a well-supported prosecution can hold its organizers accountable. Effective deterrence requires investigating the money, decision-makers, and any alleged official protection. Demand coordinated prosecution of supported wildlife and corruption offenses, substantial penalties upon conviction, and lawful recovery of criminal proceeds.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Attorney General Fagbemi,
Please direct a coordinated prosecutorial response to the Environmental Investigation Agency’s recent report on wildlife trafficking. We ask you to work with wildlife, customs, financial-crime, and anti-corruption agencies to identify evidence suitable for court. Suspected trafficking in scales and tusks warrants tracing responsibility from the seized material to anyone proved to have organized or financed its movement.
Seek underlying records from investigators, test their reliability, and pursue lawful cooperation with authorities in source and destination countries. Examine financial transactions and communications where justified, and investigate specific bribery allegations without presuming that all officers at a checkpoint or port are involved. Evidence should establish each accused person’s role. Ensure supported cases against influential participants receive equal attention.
Where offenses are proved, seek substantial, proportionate sentences and authorized confiscation of criminal profits. Review lawful options when an outcome appears inconsistent with the established offense, without seeking punishment beyond what the law permits. We urge sustained attention to case preparation, international cooperation, and accountability for proven corruption. Pangolins and elephants need protection that reaches the people directing unlawful trade, and meaningful prosecutions can help make their exploitation less profitable and harder to repeat.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Shukran888
