Guilt-Racked Suspect Sentenced to Death 12 Years After Nyanya-Abuja Bombing

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

Twelve years after the deadly Nyanya Motor Park bombing that claimed over 70, a Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 37-year-old Zakaria Garba to death by hanging for his role in the 2014 terrorist attack.The court also imposed multiple sentences on him in the Abuja mass trial of suspected terrorists on Friday.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment in suit no. FHC/KNJ/CR/985/2026 after Garba pleaded guilty to a five-count charge filed by the Federal Government through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.He was sentenced to 35 years imprisonment on counts one and two, life imprisonment on count three, and death by hanging on counts four and five.

The court held that Garba, of Jambutu Park in Jimeta Local Government Area of Adamawa State, conspired in 2014 alongside others now at large to plan and execute the bombing at Nyanya Motor Park, Abuja, using explosive devices.

The attack resulted in the deaths of over 70 persons and left several others injured.

Justice Omotosho also convicted him on count four for his direct participation in the bombing.

The offences contravened Section 17 of the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act, 2013, and are punishable under the same law.

The judge, while delivering the sentence, said: “May God have mercy on you.”