76-Year-Old Grandpa Sentenced to 40 Years for Drug Trafficking Offences
A 76-year-old grandfather, Mr Francis Omofe, has been handed a 40-year jail term for drug-related offences, following a judgment delivered by Justice James Omotosho. The judge ruled that the prosecution successfully proved the two-count charge against Omofe beyond reasonable doubt, leading to his conviction.
Judge Emphasizes Deterrence in National Interest
Justice Omotosho stated that despite pleas for mercy, a punishment must be imposed to serve as a deterrent in the national interest. He took judicial notice of the defendant's actions, which involved transporting a large, commercial quantity of cannabis sativa using a vehicle with a police number plate to the northern region, specifically Kaduna State.
The judge highlighted that this region has seen terrorists and bandits kill numerous innocent Nigerians under the influence of such substances, deeming Omofe's actions unacceptable.
Sentencing Details and Concurrent Terms
In count one, Omofe was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment without an option of fine. For count two, considering his age, Justice Omotosho reduced a life imprisonment sentence to 25 years, also without an option of fine. The judge ordered that the sentences run concurrently from June 18, 2024, the date of his arrest, resulting in a total of 25 years imprisonment.
Background of the Case and Charges
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) had charged Omofe as the sole defendant in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/286/2024. The septuagenarian was arrested in Abuja on June 18, 2024, in a Nissan Frontier Vehicle with police force number plate NPF 558D, while transporting the substance from Edo to Kaduna State.
In count one, Omofe, a resident of Goni Gora, Kaduna State, was accused of possessing 340.8 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa, a narcotic substance, on or about June 18, 2024, along Kuje Road in Abuja. This offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act CAP N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
In count two, the NDLEA accused him of transporting 340.38 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa in the same vehicle on or about the same date and location. This offence falls under Section 11(p) of the same Act.
