The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced a father of 11 children, Isa Isiaka, to 20 years imprisonment for failing to report information relating to the activities of the proscribed Boko Haram terrorist group.

Justice Binta Fatimah Nyako handed down the sentence on Monday after the defendant pleaded guilty to terrorism-related charges brought against him by the Federal Government.

According to court proceedings, Isiaka admitted guilt immediately after the charges were read to him, prompting the court to proceed with sentencing.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who represented the Federal Government, accused the convict of deliberately concealing information that could have led to the arrest of members of the Boko Haram sect.

The prosecution argued that the failure to disclose such information constituted a serious offence under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism laws.

In his plea for leniency, Isiaka told the court that he was a first-time offender and appealed for mercy, citing his family responsibilities as a father of 11 children and husband to two wives.

Despite the appeal, Justice Nyako convicted and sentenced him to 20 years imprisonment.