DSS Frees Three Men Wrongfully Detained Over IPOB Allegations and Hardsmen Killing Charges

The Department of State Services (DSS) announced the release of three persons on Tuesday, believed to have been detained over suspicions of involvement with the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The detainees—Augustine Udemba, Nelson Onyedikachi Udemba, and Ifesinachi Eze— are suspected of belonging to IPOB and involvement in the killing of seven Fulani cattle herders.

In a significant move reflecting ongoing reforms under the new DSS Director-General, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, the service is also reviewing over 20 cases of individuals reportedly wrongfully detained. These efforts aim to ensure that the DSS aligns with the principles of the rule of law, including proper legal processing and the release of individuals who have been wrongfully detained.

The information was shared late Tuesday night by Abuja-based human rights lawyer Mr. Deji Adeyanju on his verified social media platforms. Adeyanju confirmed that the three individuals have been released and reunited with their families.

He emphasised that this release is part of the DSS’s broader reform agenda: to reposition the service for better compliance with legal standards, which involves reviewing detainees’ cases, prosecuting those with substantive evidence, and releasing those who have been wrongly detained.

“We are currently working on more than 20 cases with the service, and we thank the DG for his dedication to doing what is right,” Adeyanju said. “There are hundreds of Nigerians facing similar issues, and we urge the DSS leadership to expedite the ongoing reforms.”

While he did not specify whether compensation would be paid to the released individuals, security sources suggest that, given Mr. Ajayi’s track record of providing compensation to wrongfully detained persons, it’s likely the trio will receive some form of reparations.

Just last week, the DSS Director-General ordered the release of Abdulyakini Salisu, a quarry business owner detained since 2022 on suspicion of kidnapping. Salisu was awarded N10 million in compensation, and reports indicate he may receive additional reparations.

Another notable case involved a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot in the leg by DSS operatives in 2016. Despite court awards of N10 million in damages and DSS’s confirmation that the shooting was accidental, two DSS officials refused to pay the victim, instead appealing the court’s decision. The DG has promised to review such cases promptly, emphasising that he welcomes any credible evidence that can help right these wrongs and bring justice to affected Nigerians.

This ongoing process signifies a new chapter for the DSS—one focused on justice, accountability, and respect for human rights.

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