Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Hamatu Modu, described as a major food supplier to Boko Haram in Borno State, to 40 years in prison for terrorism related offences.

Modu was prosecuted by the Federal Government through the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. He faced a four-count charge and pleaded guilty to all counts in court.

During the proceedings, Modu admitted that he supplied food items and information to the terrorist group.

The prosecution was led by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN.

In her judgment, Justice Nyako sentenced him to 10 years on each of the four counts. However, following an appeal by defence counsel, the court ruled that the sentences would run concurrently. This means Modu will spend 10 years in prison instead of 40 years separately.

In a related case, Justice Nyako also sentenced another food supplier, Isah Ali, to 10 years imprisonment for similar offences in Borno State.

The court ruled that Ali’s sentence would count from the time of his arrest three years ago, meaning part of the jail term has already been served.

Both convicts admitted to the offences brought against them.

Justice Nyako also ordered that both men should undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation after serving their prison terms.

The court further directed the Federal Ministry of Interior to decide the correctional facilities where the two convicts will serve their sentences.