Inspector General of Police Mohammed Abubakar says the delay in the passage of the anti-terrorism bill is hampering the trial of suspects and responsible for the large number of awaiting trials in police cells.

Speaking at a security meeting yesterday with senior police officers in Abuja, Abubakar said, "We cannot take somebody to court unless there is an enabling law isn't it? And I said anti-terrorism bill has not been passed and except it is passed, we cannot be able to arraign them before court.

"Efforts are being made to ensure that this goes through, it is equally worrisome for us, we want to take them to court so that we can equally reduce the cases and detentions we have. Because if prosecutions are made and suspects are sent to prison, it will serve as a deterrent to others and we are looking forward to that."

Abubakar also acknowledged the security challenges in the North particularly in Yobe, Borno, Kaduna, Zamfara and Taraba states.

"Every commissioner of police will go back to his respective command and ensure that there is hitch free Christmas and New Year celebrations," he added.