By Deborah Nnamdi
A High Court in Sokoto State has sentenced three convicted terrorists, including a citizen of the Niger Republic, to death by hanging for terrorism-related offences and illegal arms trafficking.
The convicts — Jabbi Alhaji Yalle, a Nigerien national, Yusuf Muhammad, popularly known as Sallau, and Kabiru Muhammad — were found guilty after a prosecution by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Delivering judgment in suit number SS/45C/2026, Justice Nuraddeen Muhammed Bello of High Court No. 23, Sokoto, ruled that the prosecution successfully established the guilt of the defendants beyond reasonable doubt through compelling evidence and witness testimonies.
“The evidence before this court clearly establishes the culpability of the defendants in the offences of terrorism and arms trafficking,” the judge said.
“Accordingly, the court finds the accused persons guilty as charged and sentences them to death by hanging.”
In addition to the death sentence, the court ordered the forfeiture of all cash exhibits and assets recovered from the convicts during investigations to the Federal Government.
Court records revealed that the three men were arrested on June 13, 2025, by operatives of the DSS Counter-Terrorism Unit during intelligence-led operations targeting cross-border criminal networks in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Investigations linked the convicts to the movement and supply of illegal arms as well as providing support for terrorist activities that have fueled insecurity across parts of the region.
The judgment has been widely regarded as a major victory in the fight against terrorism, arms trafficking and organised cross-border crime.
Residents who reacted to the verdict commended the DSS for what they described as a thorough investigation that culminated in the successful prosecution of the suspects. They also praised the judiciary for ensuring due process and the timely conclusion of the case.
Security analysts said the ruling sends a strong warning to individuals and groups involved in terrorism and illicit arms dealing, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to combating violent extremism and safeguarding national security.
The verdict marks another significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and curb transnational criminal activities through intelligence gathering, effective prosecution and judicial accountability.
