Federal High Court Delivers Judgement on Terrorism Convicts in Abuja
In a significant legal development, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued convictions and prison sentences to multiple individuals involved in terrorism-related cases. The rulings, delivered in separate proceedings, resulted in jail terms varying from 10 to 20 years for offenses connected to the proscribed group Boko Haram.
First Case: Hamatu Modu Sentenced for Membership and Support
Hamatu Modu faced a four-count charge brought by the prosecution, led by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo. The charges included alleged membership of Boko Haram, supplying material support, and handling funds for the group. Represented by Aliu Abubakar, Modu pleaded guilty to all counts without contesting the arraignment.
After reviewing the defendant's extrajudicial statement and investigation report admitted as evidence, the court convicted Modu. Justice Nyako imposed a 10-year prison sentence on each count, to run concurrently. Additionally, the court directed that Modu undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation during his term at a facility designated by the Ministry of Interior.
Second Case: Isa Ali Convicted for Logistical Support
In a related matter, Isa Ali was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment after admitting to providing support to Boko Haram. Ali had initially faced a two-count charge but pleaded guilty to the count relating to logistical support, such as supplying clothing. He denied the allegation of membership, leading the prosecution to withdraw that charge with the court's approval.
Considering that Ali had already spent three years in custody, the court ruled that his sentence would commence from the date of arrest. The judgement also included an order for rehabilitation and de-radicalisation as part of his imprisonment.
Third Case: Auwal Bello Sentenced for Terrorism Financing
Auwal Bello received a 10-year sentence on each of two counts, to run concurrently, after pleading guilty to charges of facilitating terrorism financing. The court heard that Bello was involved in exchanging approximately N750,000 during the naira swap period for the benefit of Boko Haram and also paid N20,000 as a levy to the group.
Despite pleas for leniency from the defence, which highlighted his family responsibilities, the court convicted Bello and ordered rehabilitation measures in addition to the prison term.
Fourth Case: Shehu Bukar Given 20-Year Sentence
Shehu Bukar was arraigned on a five-count charge, including allegations of membership, participation in attacks, and withholding information. He pleaded guilty to one count of providing support through cattle rustling and selling livestock to Boko Haram, while denying the remaining charges. The prosecution subsequently withdrew the other counts with the court's approval.
After considering the evidence presented, Justice Nyako convicted Bukar and sentenced him to 20 years' imprisonment, effective from the date of his arrest. The judge described the offense as "so gruesome" and ordered that Bukar also undergo rehabilitation and de-radicalisation.
These rulings underscore the judiciary's ongoing efforts to address terrorism in Nigeria, with a focus on both punishment and rehabilitation for those involved in such activities.
