A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced Isa Isiaka to 20 years imprisonment for withholding information relating to the activities of Boko Haram and failing to disclose details that could have aided security agencies.
The judgment was delivered by Justice Binta Fatimah Nyako after the defendant pleaded guilty to terrorism-related charges instituted by the Federal Government through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.
According to the prosecution, the convict deliberately concealed information capable of assisting authorities in identifying and arresting members of the proscribed terrorist group.
During proceedings, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented the Federal Government and argued that the offence constituted a serious violation under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism laws.
After admitting guilt, the defendant appealed for leniency, informing the court that he was a first-time offender and responsible for a large family, including two wives and 11 children.
However, Justice Nyako rejected the plea for mercy, holding that the gravity of the offence outweighed the personal circumstances presented by the convict.
Delivering judgment, the court sentenced Isaaka to 20 years imprisonment without the option of fine.
Justice Nyako stated that withholding information capable of preventing terrorist activities undermines national security and obstructs efforts aimed at protecting lives and maintaining public safety.
The court further held that the sentence should serve as a deterrent to individuals who may knowingly shield criminal elements or fail to cooperate with lawful security investigations.
The ruling reinforces the government’s position on accountability and the enforcement of laws relating to terrorism and national security.
