The Department of State Services (DSS) has released three individuals previously detained on suspicion of affiliation with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The trio had been linked to the killing of seven Fulani herders, but were reportedly found to be wrongfully accused.
According to The Nation, the release is part of ongoing internal reforms initiated by the new Director General of the DSS, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, who has prioritized a review of questionable detentions. Over 20 such cases are currently under review.
Human rights lawyer, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, who disclosed the release via his verified social media platforms on Tuesday, identified the freed individuals as Augustine Udemba, Nelson Onyedikachi Udemba, and Ifesinachi Eze. He confirmed they have since reunited with their families.
Mr. Adeyanju described the action as a positive step in the DSS’ efforts to align its operations with the rule of law, emphasizing that the Service has also committed to charging suspects where necessary and releasing those unlawfully held.
“We are actively engaging with the Service on over 20 similar cases. We commend the DG for his responsiveness and urge an expedited review of other pending matters. Many Nigerians remain in custody under questionable circumstances,” he stated.
Although no official confirmation was given regarding compensation for the released individuals, security sources suggested that restitution is likely, in line with Mr. Ajayi’s track record.
In a related development, the DSS recently paid N10 million in compensation to a businessman detained since 2022 on kidnapping allegations and ordered his release. Similarly, in May, the Service paid N20 million in damages—including lifetime medical support—to a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot by operatives in 2016, after two previous DGs had ignored a court order mandating compensation.
Mr. Ajayi has pledged to address every reported case of wrongful detention, affirming that the credibility of the source is secondary to achieving justice.
