By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi, the mother and sister of slain terrorist kingpin Kachallah Ibrahim Battujo, to 40 years in prison for terrorism-related offences. Justice Hauwa Yilwa delivered the judgment after both women pleaded guilty to multiple charges brought by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. The court handed down the sentence on Friday in Abuja after finding them guilty of aiding terrorism and concealing vital information.
Court Orders Concurrent Sentences and Rehabilitation
Justice Yilwa sentenced each woman to 20 years imprisonment on each count. However, the court ordered the sentences to run concurrently. As a result, both convicts will serve 20 years before undergoing rehabilitation.
The judge convicted them on counts two, four, and five of the five-count charge.
However, the court struck out counts one and three following an application by the Director of Public Prosecution, Oyedepo Rotimi (SAN).
Women Admitted Supporting Terrorist Activities
According to court documents, Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi admitted aiding and abetting the activities of Battujo, a known bandit kingpin.
The charge stated that both women passed information to Battujo through telephone conversations. Their actions violated Section 26 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The prosecution argued that their communication helped the terrorist leader carry out his activities.
Mother Concealed Son’s Terrorism Activities
Safiya Salihu also pleaded guilty to concealing information about her son’s terrorist activities.
The prosecution maintained that she deliberately withheld information that could have assisted security agencies in stopping the crimes.
Sister Hid Information About Illegal Weapons
Halima Abdullahi admitted concealing information about firearms illegally acquired by her brother.
She told the court she saw the weapons during a visit to Battujo’s forest camp. Despite this, she failed to alert security authorities.
Court Drops Two Terrorism Counts
The Federal Government withdrew counts one and three during the proceedings.
Those charges accused the women of receiving ₦490,300, knowing it was proceeds of terrorism. They also allegedly used terrorism proceeds to sponsor a holy pilgrimage.
Following the prosecution’s request, the court struck out both counts before delivering judgment.
Battujo Killed During Military Operation
Security forces killed Kachallah Ibrahim Battujo on June 10, 2026.
He died during a military operation in a forest near Iluke in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Authorities identified Battujo as a notorious bandit and terrorist leader responsible for several violent attacks.
