The Department of State Services (DSS) has released four individuals who were previously arrested over alleged ties to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Alongside their release, the agency approved a total of N20 million in compensation, granting N5 million to each person after investigations cleared them of all allegations.

Background of the Case

The four suspects—identified as Emele Uduma Ibe, Berefgagha Appah, Ondokeyilemi Aggry, and Oyeinmokebebeton Aggry were originally detained in May 2022 across the Sampou and Akeddei communities within the Kolokuma/Opokuma and Sagbama Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State.

Security sources revealed that the investigation proved the men had been tricked into a recruitment scheme by members of the proscribed group currently facing trial. The victims had been falsely promised monthly payments of N100,000 under the Federal Government’s Amnesty Programme, unaware of the true nature of the group orchestrating the lure.

Legal Representation and Reactions

Following their release, the legal team representing the suspects, Deji Adeyanju & Partners, commended the DSS for safeguarding national security while upholding human rights. The firm praised the leadership of DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, highlighting the agency's professionalism.

Speaking on behalf of the released group, Emele Uduma Ibe expressed profound gratitude, calling it the happiest day of his life and noting that the ordeal provided a valuable lesson he intends to share with others.

In addition to the financial compensation, security sources confirmed that the DSS will provide the four men with ongoing psychological and medical support, as well as assistance with societal reintegration.

Broader Restitution Efforts

This release forms part of a wider restitution initiative under the current DSS leadership, which began reviewing over 300 inherited terrorism cases following the Director-General's appointment in 2024. Through thorough investigations, the agency has significantly reduced its detention facility numbers while paying out substantial compensation in verified cases of wrongful arrest or operational errors, including notable past cases involving Chineze Ozoadibe, Sunday Ifedi, and Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor.

During a recent media interview, the DSS Director-General acknowledged that the agency, being human, can make mistakes, but emphasized that accountability remains paramount. He stated that whenever errors occur and injury is caused, the service is committed to providing remedies, offering compensation, and continuously improving operations in alignment with the rule of law.