Woman Sentenced to 20 Years for Terrorism Support in Abuja

Halima Haliru Umar was sentenced to 20 years in prison by the Federal High Court Abuja for illegally carrying war-grade ammunition and attempting to support terrorist activities in Nigeria. Justice Hauwa Yilwa delivered the judgment on March 11, after Umar chose to plead guilty to the third and fourth counts of the charges against her.

The charges included possession of 302 rounds of live ammunition meant for an AK-47 assault rifle and an attempt to provide logistical support to a terrorist network. Umar's decision to plead guilty was noted as a factor in the sentencing, as it saved the court's time and indicated her remorse.

Her defense counsel, Hamza Dantani, argued for leniency, highlighting that she was a first-time offender and a nursing mother at the time of her arrest. The prosecution confirmed that there were no prior criminal records against her.

While she was sentenced for two counts, a full trial regarding the remaining charges is set to commence on July 9.