Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four Boko Haram terrorists to life imprisonment after they pleaded guilty to charges brought by the Federal Government.
A witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) also testified during the trial.
Justice Omotosho additionally convicted 14 other suspects, handing down prison terms ranging from 20 to 25 years on various counts.
The Federal Government was represented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, alongside a team of lawyers, including Rotimi Oyedepo.
Confessional statements of the convicts and investigation reports were tendered through the DSS witness and admitted as evidence.
The four terrorists sentenced to life imprisonment are Ali Abiso, Bakura Kabiru, Ado (also known as Luka Garba), and Babagoni Masawai.
Ali Abiso was sentenced to life imprisonment on counts two and four, and 25 years each on counts one and three. The judge ordered that the sentences for counts one and three run concurrently.
Count four relates to his 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 on counts one and three. Ado (also known as Luka Garba) was sentenced to life imprisonment on count two and 25 years on count one.
Babagoni Masawai was sentenced to life imprisonment on counts six and seven, 20 years on counts one and two, and 10 years each on counts three, four, and five.
The 14 other convicts received various jail terms. Among them, Ali Mustapha was sentenced to 20 years on count one and 10 years each on counts two to seven, totaling 80 years. However, the judge ordered that the sentences run concurrently following a 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.
The verdict underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to prosecuting terrorism-related offenses and strengthening national security across the country.
