DSS SEEKS DEATH PENALTY FOR CONVICTED ANSARU COMMANDERS

DSS SEEKS DEATH PENALTY FOR CONVICTED ANSARU COMMANDERS

The Department of State Services (DSS) has indicated its intention to challenge the life imprisonment sentences imposed on two convicted Ansaru terrorist commanders, arguing that the punishment does not adequately reflect the severity of their crimes.

The Federal High Court in Abuja recently sentenced Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, the self-proclaimed Emir of Ansaru, and Abubakar Abba, alias Mahmud al-Nigeri, to life imprisonment after both defendants pleaded guilty to 32 terrorism-related charges.

However, a senior DSS official disclosed that the Service would appeal the judgment and seek the maximum punishment provided under the law.

According to the official, the two convicts played key roles in the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, where kidnappers allegedly demanded their release as part of negotiations for the victims’ freedom.

The DSS further alleged that two teachers were beheaded during the captivity in an attempt to pressure the government and intensify demands by the terrorist group.

The Service maintains that the scale of the crimes, the loss of innocent lives and the trauma inflicted on victims and their families warrant a stiffer penalty than life imprisonment.

The security agency stressed that pursuing a tougher sentence is necessary to ensure justice for the victims and to reinforce efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the country.

The case is expected to proceed to the appellate court as the DSS seeks a review of the sentence handed down by the trial court.