Court to Deliver Verdict in Tukur Mamu’s Terrorism Case on January 27

A Federal High Court in Abuja has set January 27, 2024, as the date for its judgment in the trial of Tukur Mohammed Mamu, who is accused of negotiating for terrorists. The judge, Mohammed Umar, announced the date after hearing final arguments from both the prosecution and the defense.

The prosecution, represented by lawyer David Kaswe, urged the court to convict Mamu, claiming they have proven their case. In contrast, Mamu’s defense attorney, Johnson Usman, argued for his client’s acquittal, stating that the prosecution did not provide sufficient evidence, particularly regarding a firearm allegedly found at Mamu’s home.

Usman pointed out that the prosecution failed to present a valid license for the firearm, which raised doubts about the evidence. He argued that just because a license might have expired does not mean a person can be arrested for having a firearm at home.

Kaswe countered that the license and firearm had been submitted as evidence in court. The defense also expressed gratitude to the Department of State Services for allowing Mamu’s family to visit him.

Mamu was arrested in September 2022 in Egypt on suspicion of financing terrorism. He is accused of negotiating ransom payments with families of hostages from a train attack in March 2022, rather than working with the government’s negotiation committee. He faces multiple charges, including terrorism financing and possession of firearms without a license.

The court’s upcoming decision will determine Mamu’s fate regarding these serious allegations.