Court sentences man to 4 years imprisonment for cannabis transport

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

Justice Mashkur Salisu of a Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo, Osun State, has sentenced Musa Raji Mohammed to four years in prison for transporting 10.7 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa.

The case was initiated on March 13, 2024, by the federal government, represented by Olufemi Ijimakin. The charge against Mohammed outlined that, on or about March 1, 2024, he unlawfully trafficked in the cannabis along the Gbongan-Ibadan expressway in Osun State. This offense is in violation of Section 11(b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act.

During the trial, the prosecution called three witnesses and presented ten exhibits to support their case after Mohammed pleaded not guilty. Justice Salisu ruled that the prosecution had successfully established their case against the defendant, leading to his conviction.

Counsel for the convict, Olayiwola Adeniyi, requested leniency in sentencing, highlighting that Mohammed is a first-time offender. The court acknowledged that the offense could carry a life sentence but chose to show mercy, ultimately sentencing him to four years imprisonment without the option of a fine.

The judge emphasised that the sentence aims to deter others contemplating similar offenses. Additionally, he ordered the destruction of the cannabis and ruled that the motorcycle used in its transportation be forfeited to the federal government.