Twelve individuals have been sentenced to death by hanging in Nigeria following convictions for terrorism, kidnapping, and other serious security-related offences, as prosecuted by the Department of State Security (DSS). The sentences were handed down by federal and state high courts across the country between May and June 2026. In addition to the death sentences, other defendants received prison terms ranging from two years to life imprisonment. The cases highlight the government’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violent crime in the nation.
Among those sentenced to death are four men convicted for their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, on June 5, 2022. The Federal High Court, on June 3, 2026, sentenced Idris Omeiza, Alqasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris to death by hanging. They were found guilty of terrorism, membership in a terrorist group, and conspiracy. The attack, which left dozens dead and injured, shocked the nation and intensified calls for stronger security measures.
In Ekiti State, Ibrahim Abubakar and Abdullahi Abubakar were sentenced to death by the Ekiti State High Court for conspiracy to murder, murder, and kidnapping. The court found them guilty after a trial that examined evidence linking them to violent criminal activities in the region. Meanwhile, in Kogi State, Jibrin Halilu received a death sentence for conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping, which resulted in the death of Andrew Offo.
Hauwa’u Mukhtar was sentenced to death in Katsina State for conspiracy and aiding terrorism by supplying ammunition to a bandit leader. Her conviction underscores the growing recognition of women’s involvement in terrorist networks. In Sokoto State, Yusuf Muhammad (also known as Salau), Jabbi Alhaji Yalle, and Kabiru A. Maradun were each sentenced to death for criminal conspiracy, terrorism, arms trafficking, and proliferation.
The DSS confirmed that the cases involved a range of serious offences, including membership in Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Other charges included supporting terrorist organisations, gun running, concealing information, and terrorism financing. Abdullahi Mohammed Mustapha was also sentenced to death during mass terrorism trials held between June 15 and 18, 2026, after being convicted on terrorism-related charges.
These convictions reflect the Nigerian judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law in the face of persistent security threats. The death sentences, while controversial, signal a firm stance against terrorism and violent crime. As Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity, these rulings may serve as a deterrent to those considering involvement in extremist activities. The government’s focus on prosecuting such cases remains a key component of its broader national security strategy.
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