Nigerian Politician Gets 10 Years for Boko Haram Links

On Friday, the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Babagana Habeeb, a former senatorial candidate from Borno State, to 10 years in prison for supplying petrol to Boko Haram insurgents. Justice Peter Lifu delivered the judgment, finding Habeeb guilty of supporting terrorist activities.

The conviction stemmed from a charge filed by the Federal Government, which accused him of aiding and abetting terrorism. Habeeb, known as a fuel dealer based in Maiduguri, admitted to supplying petrol to the insurgents but attempted to shift responsibility by claiming he was unaware of their involvement.

During the proceedings, he broke down and pleaded for mercy, citing suffering and separation from his family during his decade-long detention. Prosecuting counsel David Kasw rejected his emotional appeal, arguing that the offense was serious and facilitated terrorist operations, leading to loss of lives and destruction in northeastern Nigeria.

The court imposed a 10-year sentence, effective from the date of his initial arrest, and directed that he undergo proper rehabilitation upon release.