The State Security Service (SSS) has arraigned four suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) before a Federal High Court in Abuja. The defendants, Michael Okafor, Chinedu Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa, and Chigozie Olisa, are facing a six-count charge of terrorism and kidnapping. They are accused of involvement in the abduction and killing of SSS officer Ekpenyong Asuquo Owoh. The defendants were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
According to the prosecution, the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the abduction of Mr Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt in Rivers State to Awka in Anambra State. They were further accused of taking the operative hostage and causing his death during the alleged criminal operation. The prosecution also alleged that the suspects were involved in activities linked to terrorism and belonged to the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
The defendants are also accused of unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offences. The charges followed investigations into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of the officer and the alleged activities of the defendants. The prosecution has three witnesses who will give evidence during the trial.
When the charges were read, the defendants pleaded not guilty. Munirat Oladunjoye, who appeared for the SSS, sought a trial. Kelvin Ekwe, who appeared for the defendants, did not oppose the application. The court has adjourned the matter until 6 October for commencement of trial.
Justice Abdulmalik ordered that the four accused persons be remanded in SSS custody. The defendants are Michael Okafor, alias Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, alias Ability. The SSS had invited the public to provide information on the whereabouts of the suspects.
The killing of SSS officer Ekpenyong Asuquo Owoh has been widely condemned. The incident occurred while he was on duty. The SSS has been working to bring those responsible to justice. The agency has assured the public that it will not relent in its efforts to combat terrorism and other crimes.
The trial of the four suspected IPOB members will continue on 6 October. The prosecution will present its witnesses and evidence to the court. The defendants will have the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges.
Key points
- The defendants are accused of involvement in the abduction and killing of SSS officer Ekpenyong Asuquo Owoh.
- The prosecution has three witnesses who will give evidence during the trial.
- The court has adjourned the matter until 6 October for commencement of trial.
