Why Boko Haram Suspects Were Not Sentenced To Death

Three out of the four Boko Haram suspects who were arraigned at the Federal High Court, Lagos, were not given a death sentence because they have not carried out any act of terrorism.

This is according to the statement made by Lagos State Attorney General, Ade Ipaye while he was briefing journalists at Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

It was reported that 17 suspected members of the sect were arraigned last year but the numbers went down to 4 in November. Ipaye explained this by saying 13 of them were released due to lack of sufficient evidence to prosecute them. 

The Attorney General, who obtained a fiat from his federal counterpart for the suspects’ prosecution, said he had to file a “nolle prosecui” in their favour subsequent upon which they were released.

Ipaye also listed the names of the four remaining suspects who went on to face the judge – Ali Mohammed, Adamu Karumi, Ibrahim Usman and Bala Haruna. 

These men were charged on a six- count charge bordering on conspiracy, acts of terrorism, concealing of information and possession of firearms and ammunitions under the terrorism Act, 2013.

Although, Ipaye admitted that law under which they were charged actually prescribed death penalty for such offence, he explained what was needed before a final decision can be made.

“For this, the trial judge would have to consider whether the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were detonated, whether it caused grievous bodily harm or death of individuals, among other consideration before coming down heavily on the suspects,” he stated.