A federal high court in Abuja has sentenced Muhammad Sani to 20 years in prison for withholding information about the activities of a notorious bandit.

The court convicted Sani on two counts out of a four-count charge related to terrorism offences. The sentence will take effect from the date of his arrest in January 2023, and he is to serve the term at the Kuje correctional centre in Abuja.

Sani was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services in January 2023. He was accused of concealing information about a bandit known as Danranmi, who allegedly supplies arms and ammunition to kidnappers and bandits in Niger State.

The court found that Sani failed to disclose this information to law enforcement agencies as required by law.

The prosecution also alleged that Sani received the sum of N580,000 from the bandit for the purchase of ammunition. The judge, Emeka Nwite, convicted him on the first two counts and sentenced him to 20 years imprisonment without option of fine. The remaining counts were not proven, leading to his acquittal on those charges.

The case highlights the serious consequences of withholding information that could help in the fight against banditry and terrorism.

Security agencies have continued to urge citizens to report suspicious activities to prevent criminals from operating freely. The conviction is seen as a strong message to those who aid or conceal information about criminal elements in the country.

The judgment comes as part of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria. Many Nigerians have welcomed the outcome, hoping it will encourage more people to cooperate with security agencies in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities. The court’s decision is expected to serve as a deterrent to others who might be tempted to protect or assist known criminals.

Photo credit: The cable