A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced Muhammad Sani to 20 years imprisonment for conspiring to conceal information about a notorious bandit, Danranmi, which facilitated his escape. The judgment was delivered on Monday, July 13, by Justice Nwite.
Conviction on Multiple Counts
Sani, a resident of Nabi Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, was found guilty on Count One and Count Two of a four-count charge related to terrorism offences. He was acquitted on Counts Three and Four. The charges stemmed from events on or about January 9, 2023, in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
According to the charges, Sani conspired with Danranmi, who remains at large, to conceal information that Danranmi is a notorious bandit involved in supplying arms and ammunition to kidnappers and bandits in and around Niger State. The court stated that Sani had information that would have materially assisted in Danranmi's apprehension but failed to disclose it to law enforcement or security officers.
Details of the Charges
Count One alleged that Sani and Danranmi conspired to conceal the latter's identity as a supplier of weapons to criminal gangs, contrary to Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, punishable under Section 16(1)(b) of the same Act. Count Two accused Sani of failing to disclose information about Danranmi's activities to authorities, also violating Section 16(1)(b).
Counts Three and Four involved allegations that Sani received N580,000 from Danranmi to purchase 150 rounds of ammunition from an individual known as Chairman, with the knowledge that the ammunition would be used to commit terrorism offences. However, the court acquitted Sani on these counts.
Sentence and Imprisonment
Justice Nwite sentenced Sani to 20 years imprisonment on Count One and Count Two, with no option of a fine. The sentence is to run from the date of his arrest, January 11, 2023. Sani will serve his term at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
Broader Implications for Security
“The conviction is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to prosecute those who enable banditry and terrorism financing by withholding useful intelligence around the country,” a security source stated. The case highlights the legal consequences for individuals who shield criminals or fail to report terrorism-related information, as part of Nigeria's broader strategy to combat banditry and terrorism.
