The Department of State Services (DSS) has released four men detained over alleged links to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) after investigations cleared them of the allegations.
The agency also approved ₦20 million in compensation, with each of the freed men expected to receive ₦5 million.
The beneficiaries are Emele Uduma Ibe, Berefgagha Appah, Ondokeyilemi Aggry and Oyeinmokebebeton Aggry. They were arrested in May 2022 in Sampou and Akeddei communities, located in Kolokuma/Opokuma and Sagbama Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State.
Findings from the DSS investigation reportedly showed that the men had been deceived into believing they were joining the Federal Government’s Amnesty Programme, which promised participants a monthly allowance of ₦100,000.
However, the investigation established that they had been recruited through individuals linked to IPOB, some of whom are currently facing trial.
DSS Offers Medical and Psychological Support
The agency’s Director-General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, approved their release and compensation following the investigation.
Their lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, commended the DSS leadership for addressing cases of wrongful detention and promoting respect for human rights.
The released men will also receive medical and psychological assistance to support their recovery and reintegration into society.
Notably, the development forms part of a wider review of terrorism-related cases inherited by Ajayi after assuming office in 2024. The review covered more than 300 cases and reportedly reduced the number of detainees in the agency’s custody to approximately 100.
The DSS has also paid more than ₦1 billion in compensation to individuals cleared of allegations or affected by wrongful actions involving its personnel.
Previous beneficiaries include a Jos-based businessman who received ₦20 million after DSS operatives mistakenly shot him, with the agency also covering his medical expenses.
Chineze Ozoadibe and Sunday Ifedi reportedly received ₦10 million each after investigations cleared them of wrongdoing, while Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor received ₦5 million following his clearance over alleged IPOB links.
The compensation exercise reflects the agency’s stated commitment to addressing cases where investigations establish wrongful detention or misconduct.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
