A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Paul Okechukwu, 48, to 20 years in prison for membership of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Justice Hauwa Yilwa handed down the sentence on Thursday after Okechukwu pleaded guilty to belonging to the group in Imo State in 2021, contrary to the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013.

The charge was filed by the Federal Government, with Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, leading the prosecution.

Okechukwu, who hails from Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, had initially faced two charges. The second accused him of participating in an attack that resulted in the deaths of two security operatives.

However, after Okechukwu pleaded not guilty to the second count, Fagbemi withdrew it, and the court struck it out.

A Department of State Services (DSS) operative, identified in court as “ABC”, subsequently testified that he was part of the team that investigated the defendant. The witness identified Okechukwu as an IPOB member and alleged that he was involved in terrorist activities, including attacks on security personnel.

The prosecution also tendered its investigation report, which the court admitted as evidence.

Fagbemi urged the court to impose the maximum sentence, arguing that the law prescribed a minimum of 20 years’ imprisonment for the offence.

He said a stiff penalty would deter others and demonstrate the government’s resolve against terrorism.

Okechukwu reportedly broke down in tears in the dock and pleaded for leniency as the prosecution sought the sentence.

In her ruling, Justice Yilwa found him guilty of IPOB membership and sentenced him to 20 years in prison, citing the seriousness of the offence and its wider implications for the country.

The judge directed that the sentence should run from the date of his arrest. She also ordered that Okechukwu undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation after completing his prison term.