Court gavel
In a major crackdown on terrorism, the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four Boko Haram terrorists to life imprisonment, while convicting 14 others with varying jail terms for terrorism-related offences.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered the judgment after the defendants pleaded guilty to charges filed by the Federal Government.
The prosecution according to Channels TV report, was led by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, alongside a team of government lawyers including Rotimi Oyedepo.
Four Terrorists Get Life Imprisonment
The four terrorists sentenced to life imprisonment are: Ali Abiso, Bakura Kabiru, Ado (also known as Luka Garba) and Babagoni Masawai
A witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) testified during the trial, presenting confessional statements and investigation reports, which were admitted as evidence by the court.
*Details of Sentences*
Ali Abiso was sentenced to life imprisonment on counts two and four, and 25 years each on counts one and three. Justice Omotosho ordered that the sentences for counts one and three run concurrently.
Count four relates to his role in Boko Haram attacks across several communities.
According to court documents, his offence involved participation in Boko Haram attacks in Bama, Gwoza, Konduga, Bita, Baza, and Aulari on or before July 8, 2022, contrary to Section 17 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Bakura Kabiru received life imprisonment on count two and 25 years imprisonment on counts one and three.
Ado, also known as Luka Garba, was sentenced to life imprisonment on count two and 25 years imprisonment on count one.
Babagoni Masawai received life imprisonment on counts six and seven, 20 years on counts one and two, and 10 years each on counts three, four, and five.
*14 Others Convicted*
Justice Omotosho also convicted 14 additional defendants and handed down prison terms ranging between 20 and 25 years.
Among them, Ali Mustapha received 20 years imprisonment on count one and 10 years each on counts two to seven, totaling 80 years. However, the court ordered that the sentences run concurrently after considering his plea for mercy.
Other convicts include: Danbawa Salisu, Modu Ali, Sanda Bello, Mustapha Fali, Modu Musa, Bidal Modu, Mohammed Abdullahi, Umar Garba, Usman Ahmadu, Hussaini Bukar, Baba Manye, Musa Mai Modu, and Ali Musa
During proceedings, a witness from the Department of State Services presented confessional statements and investigation findings, which the court admitted as exhibits.
The convictions followed the defendants’ guilty pleas to terrorism-related offences under Nigeria’s Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
The ruling underscores the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to prosecute terrorism-related crimes and strengthen national security.
The judgment is also seen as part of broader counter-terrorism measures aimed at dismantling Boko Haram networks and restoring stability in affected regions.
