The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced a convicted Boko Haram terrorist, Alkali Yarima, also known as La’ari, to death by hanging for his role in the 2015 attacks on Maiduguri, Borno State.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice James Omotosho found Yarima guilty on a seven-count terrorism charge brought against him by the Federal Government.
The court imposed the death sentence on count seven for his participation in the 2015 Maiduguri attacks. Yarima was also sentenced to life imprisonment on count six for receiving arms and weapons training in preparation for terrorist activities.
In addition, Justice Omotosho sentenced the convict to 35 years’ imprisonment on count one for being a member of the proscribed Boko Haram terrorist group, 30 years on count five, and 10 years each on counts two, three, and four.
According to the prosecution, Yarima, a native of Lawanti in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State, committed the offences between 2009 and 2015. The Federal Government, in charge number FHC/KNJ/CR/971/2026, accused him of embracing the extremist ideology of Boko Haram founder Mohammed Yusuf and remaining an active member of the terrorist group until his arrest.
The prosecution further stated that Yarima travelled to an Arab country to undergo training in arms and weapon handling to prepare for terrorist operations. He was also found guilty of participating in Boko Haram’s attacks on Maiduguri in 2015, an offence punishable under the Terrorism (Prevention Amendment) Act, 2013.
Although terrorism trials are usually conducted at the Federal High Court in Kainji, Niger State, Yarima’s case was heard and concluded in Abuja.
Speaking after the judgment, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who led the prosecution team, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to combat terrorism.
“We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe place for everybody,” Fagbemi said.
The judgment marks another significant milestone in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to prosecute and bring to justice individuals involved in terrorism and insurgency across the country.
