The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday released three men earlier accused of links to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). They were initially held in connection with the killing of seven Fulani herders.
Their release follows a review ordered by the new DSS Director General, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, as part of a broader reform initiative. The DSS is currently reviewing over 20 similar cases involving possibly innocent detainees.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju confirmed the development via his verified social media accounts. He identified the freed individuals as Augustine Udemba, Nelson Onyedikachi Udemba, and Ifesinachi Eze. According to him, the men have now reunited with their families.
Adeyanju praised the DSS DG’s commitment to due process. He stated that the Service is not only reviewing questionable detentions but also charging suspects when necessary and freeing those held without cause.
“We are working on over 20 similar cases,” Adeyanju wrote. “We thank the DSS DG for taking bold steps and urge him to speed up the process. Many Nigerians are facing similar situations.”
Although the DSS has not confirmed compensation for the released men, sources say it is likely. Mr. Ajayi has shown a willingness to pay damages in similar cases.
Last week, he ordered the release of a businessman held since 2022 over false kidnapping allegations and paid him ₦10 million in compensation.
In another case, the DG paid ₦20 million, including an additional ₦10 million and lifetime medical care, to a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot by DSS operatives in 2016. Two previous DSS bosses had refused to obey a court judgment awarding the victim ₦10 million.
Commitment to Justice
Mr. Ajayi has pledged to act on every credible report of wrongful detention. He stated that he does not mind the source of such reports as long as they help the Service uphold justice and the rule of law.
