The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 37-year-old Zakaria Garba to death by hanging for his involvement in the 2014 bombing of Nyanya Motor Park, Abuja. The bomb blast claimed more than 70 lives and left several others injured.
Court Delivers Varied Sentences
The judgment was delivered during the conclusion of a mass trial of suspected terrorists before Justice James Omotosho, who convicted Garba after he pleaded guilty to five terrorism-related charges brought by the Federal Government. The court handed Garba a 35-year prison sentence on counts one and two, life imprisonment on count three, and death sentences on counts four and five. After announcing the punishment, Justice Omotosho told the convict, “May God have mercy on you.”
Details of the Charges
The charges alleged that Garba and others still at large planned and carried out the bombing at Nyanya Motor Park using explosive devices, resulting in the death of over 70 people and injuries to many others. The case was filed by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice under the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013.
Other Defendants Sentenced
Other defendants tried alongside Garba received various jail terms after pleading guilty to separate terrorism charges.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Fighting Terrorism
Speaking after the trial, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the government remained committed to tackling terrorism and ensuring a safer Nigeria. “We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe haven for everybody,” Fagbemi said.
Victims' Concerns
Previously, victims of various bomb blasts across Nigeria have decried the neglect they face from the Nigerian government since their ordeals, which in some cases have lasted several years. The victims, under the Bomb Blast Victims Association of Nigeria, said the Nigerian government focuses more on insurgents than on those who bear the brunt of their crimes.
