DSS arraigns four alleged IPOB members over operative’s death
Four men have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the alleged kidnapping and killing of DSS operative Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh. They face six terrorism-related counts, including alleged abduction, unlawful possession of firearms and membership of IPOB and its armed wing, ESN.
The Department of State Services has arraigned four suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra over the alleged kidnapping and killing of its operative, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh. The defendants—Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa—were brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja. They face a six-count charge relating to terrorism, the alleged abduction of a DSS personnel and unlawful possession of firearms.
The prosecution said the defendants conspired to commit terrorist acts and were involved in taking Owoh hostage. According to the allegations, the operative was abducted while travelling from Port Harcourt in Rivers State to Awka in Anambra State. The prosecution further alleged that he died during the operation.
The defendants were also accused of belonging to IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, and of possessing weapons including AK-47 and pump-action rifles. The allegations followed investigations into the operative’s death and the activities attributed to the defendants. Prosecution counsel Munirat Oladunjoye asked the court to set a date for trial and said three witnesses would testify.
The defence position was not included in the supplied material. Justice Abdulmalik fixed October 6 for the commencement of trial and ordered that the four defendants be remanded in DSS custody. The charges remain allegations until determined by the court.
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