The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has strongly opposed the life sentences handed to two convicted Ansaru commanders, calling instead for the death penalty. In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, MURIC's executive director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, described the life sentences as "too lenient, too dangerous, and too disproportionate."
Court Conviction and MURIC's Reaction
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja convicted Abubakar Abba (also known as Abu Baraa) and Mahmud Usman (also known as Mahmuda) on Monday, July 20, 2026. Both were found guilty of terrorism offences and sentenced to life imprisonment. MURIC, however, argues that such a penalty is insufficient given the severity of their crimes.
Professor Akintola warned that keeping convicted terrorists in prison poses a serious security risk. He stated: "It is dangerous to keep terrorists in prison custody temporarily or ad infinitum because of their deadly networks which they use to organise jailbreaks." He further added that terrorists "are no longer human beings" and that incarcerating them alongside other inmates could lead to radicalisation.
Link to Oyo Abduction
MURIC also referenced a recent kidnapping in Oriire, Oyo state, where abductors demanded the release of the same two men as a condition for freeing school children and teachers taken hostage. The group said this incident should have served as a clear warning to authorities about the continued influence these individuals hold outside prison walls.
Demand for Expedited Execution
Beyond calling for the death penalty, MURIC set a specific timeline for implementation. The Islamic group demanded that any terrorist sentenced to death must be executed within seven days of the court's judgement, citing a pattern of audacious attacks on prison facilities across the country. The statement read: "We therefore demand the death penalty for any terrorist found guilty of active participation in terror attacks."
Professor Akintola urged the federal government to put the necessary legal frameworks in place to ensure executions could be carried out through due process. He argued that those who deprive others of the benefits of democracy have no right to claim its protections, including fundamental human rights.
DSS Also Seeks Death Penalty
Earlier, the Department of State Services (DSS) indicated it would challenge the life sentences imposed on the two Ansaru commanders. A senior DSS official, speaking after the judgement, disclosed that the secret police considers the punishment inadequate given the gravity of the offences.
The case has reignited debate on Nigeria's approach to terrorism sentencing, with security agencies and advocacy groups pushing for harsher penalties to deter future attacks.
