The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) group over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of its officer, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh. The suspects, Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa, and Chigozie Olisa, were arraigned on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and kidnapping before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to the prosecution, the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the abduction of Owoh, a DSS operative, while he was traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State. They were further accused of taking the operative hostage and causing his death in the course of the alleged criminal operation. The defendants are also accused of belonging to the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The prosecution alleged that the suspects were involved in the unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offenses. The charges followed investigations into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of the DSS operative and the alleged activities of the defendants. The DSS has continued to intensify its intelligence-led operations and prosecution of individuals suspected of involvement in terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.
Security sources revealed that Owoh disappeared on February 23, 2022, along Orlu Road, Ihiala LGA, Anambra State, while en route to Awka town in a silver-colored Pontiac vibe. The incident has been linked to the alleged activities of the defendants, who are suspected to be members of IPOB and ESN. The DSS has stated that it is hoped that justice will prevail in this case, given the gravity of the offenses.
The four suspects, who are currently in custody, are facing a six-count charge that includes conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism, kidnapping, and unlawful possession of firearms. The Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to hear the case and determine the fate of the defendants. The DSS has assured that it will continue to pursue justice in this case and ensure that those responsible for the killing of its officer are brought to book.
The killing of DSS officer Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh has been widely condemned, and the incident has highlighted the growing concerns about terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria. The DSS has been working to strengthen its operations and collaborate with other security agencies to combat these threats. The arraignment of the four suspects is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible for the killing are held accountable.
The case is ongoing, and the defendants are expected to have their day in court. The prosecution will present its evidence, and the defendants will have the opportunity to defend themselves. The outcome of the case is expected to have significant implications for the fight against terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Department of State Services has arraigned four suspected IPOB members over the alleged kidnapping and killing of its officer, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
- The suspects are facing a six-count charge bordering on terrorism, kidnapping, and unlawful possession of firearms.
- The case is ongoing, and the defendants are expected to have their day in court to defend themselves against the allegations.
