Nyanya Bombing: Court Sentences Convicted Suspect to Death, Others Jailed
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced a 37-year-old man, Zakaria Garba, to death by hanging for his role in the 2014 Nyanya Motor Park bombing that killed more than 70 people and left several others injured.
Delivering judgment in a mass terrorism trial concluded this week, Justice James Omotosho found Garba guilty on multiple counts, including conspiracy, participation in acts of terrorism, and the use of explosives targeting civilians.
Court records showed that Garba, alongside others still at large, took part in planning and executing the attack at Nyanya Motor Park in Abuja.
The explosion in 2014 remains one of the deadliest in the capital, causing mass casualties and widespread destruction.
The court imposed a mix of sentences across the five-count charge, including 35-year prison terms on some counts, life imprisonment on another, and two death sentences. The judge also remarked solemnly, saying, “May God have mercy on you.”
The prosecution, led by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the Federal Government remains committed to pursuing terrorism cases and strengthening national security.
Other defendants in the case also received sentences. Ali Mohammed was handed 25 years and 15 years on separate counts, Isa Saleh received 20 years, and Tujan Mohammed was also sentenced to 20 years. Salisu Bala received a 20-year sentence on one count while being discharged on others.
The trials, conducted under terrorism charges filed by the Federal Government, were relocated from Kainji in Niger State to the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Authorities say the convictions reinforce ongoing efforts to ensure accountability for past terror attacks and strengthen Nigeria’s anti-terrorism stance.
