12 convicted, sentenced to death over terrorism, kidnapping cases in Nigeria
Twelve Sentenced to Death in Terrorism and Kidnapping Cases
Twelve individuals have been sentenced to death by hanging in connection with various terrorism, kidnapping, and security-related offenses in Nigeria. These convictions were determined by federal and state high courts across the country between May and June 2026, according to court documents.
Alongside the death sentences, other defendants received prison terms ranging from two years to life imprisonment. Notably, four men linked to the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, were among those condemned. Idris Omeiza, Alqasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris were sentenced by the Federal High Court for charges including terrorism, membership in a terrorist organization, and conspiracy.
Ibrahim Abubakar and Abdullahi Abubakar were also sentenced to death by the Ekiti State High Court for conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and kidnapping. Additionally, Jibrin Halilu received a death sentence from the Kogi State High Court after being convicted of conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping, resulting in the death of Andrew Offo.
In Katsina State, Hauwa’u Mukhtar faced a death sentence for conspiracy and for supplying ammunition to a bandit leader. The Sokoto State High Court likewise imposed death sentences on Yusuf Muhammad (also known as Salau), Jabbi Alhaji Yalle, and Kabiru A. Maradun after they were found guilty of charges including criminal conspiracy, terrorism, and arms trafficking.
The Department of State Security (DSS) stated that the cases involved offenses linked to prominent terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The charges encompassed supporting terrorist organizations, gun running, concealing information, and financing terrorism.
Additionally, Abdullahi Mohammed Mustapha was sentenced to death after being convicted on terrorism charges during mass trials held from June 15 to 18. Other defendants received convictions for associations with Boko Haram or ISWAP, as well as for providing material support to terrorist activities.