The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday sentenced a group of suspected terrorists to varying jail terms, including 20 years imprisonment on each count and life imprisonment for one of the convicts.
Several defendants were handed 20-year sentences on each count, to run concurrently, while a key suspect received life imprisonment in addition to 20-year terms on five counts for providing support to a proscribed terrorist organisation.
Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation , who led the prosecution, told the court that the minimum sentence for terrorism-related offences is 20 years, while the maximum is life imprisonment.
Fagbemi noted that the court could order that sentences take effect from the date of the defendants’ arrest.
Read also: Kaduna Church attack: Police confirm seven rescued, counter army’s figure
He said all convicted suspects had pleaded guilty and requested the court to temper justice with mercy.
Their offences included receiving training in the use of AK-47 rifles, supplying food, clothing, and drugs to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), attacking military personnel, burning military vehicles, and supplying fuel and scrap to terrorists.
The mass trial, which usually takes place in Kainji, Niger State, was relocated to Abuja due to the court’s ongoing Easter vacation. Multiple courtrooms at the Abuja division were engaged in trying the suspects.
Presiding judges, Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite, and Obiora Egwuatu. Defendants listed before Justice Nyako included Abubakar Ali, Hamat Modu, Isah Ali, Awal Bello, and Shehu Bukar, while those before Justice Nwite included Gonni Alhaji, Mallam Yana, Mohammed Hassan, and Tasiu Yakubu.
The ruling underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to prosecuting terrorism-related offences and enforcing strict penalties for individuals supporting proscribed organisations.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
