The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced a 48-year-old man, Paul Okechukwu, to 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra.
Justice Hawa Yilwa delivered the judgment on Thursday after the Federal Government withdrew a second charge accusing Okechukwu of participating in an attack that killed two security operatives.
The prosecution alleged that Okechukwu, from Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, belonged to IPOB in Imo State in 2021, contrary to Section 16 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013.
He pleaded guilty to the membership charge but denied the allegation linking him to the fatal attack.
Following an application by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, the court struck out the second count after the prosecution withdrew it.
The prosecution subsequently called a witness from the Department of State Services, identified as “ABC” for the trial, to review facts relating to the case.
The witness identified Okechukwu as an IPOB member and alleged that he was involved in terrorist activities, including attacks on security personnel. He also tendered an investigation report, which the court admitted as evidence.
Fagbemi urged the court to impose the prescribed 20-year sentence, arguing that it would deter others and demonstrate the government’s resolve against terrorism.
“We therefore urge my lord to impose the maximum sentence, at least to serve as a deterrent to others and to also show that the nation cannot condone any act of terrorism,” he said.
Okechukwu broke down in tears in the dock after the prosecution’s application, pleading with the court for mercy.
In her judgment, Justice Yilwa sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment, noting the charge and its “ripple effect” on the nation.
The judge directed that he be remanded in a correctional facility designated by the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service. She ordered that his sentence should run from the date of his arrest.
The court further directed that Okechukwu undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation after completing his prison term.
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