The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) before the Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of a DSS operative, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
The suspects, identified as Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa, were brought before the court on a six-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism and the abduction of a security operative.
According to the prosecution, the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the kidnapping of Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.
The DSS further alleged that the suspects held the operative hostage and were responsible for his death during the course of the operation.
The four defendants were also accused of belonging to the outlawed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as participating in activities linked to terrorism.
In addition, the prosecution alleged that the accused persons were in unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 rifles and pump-action guns, in connection with the offences.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read in court.
Following their arraignment, the trial judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, adjourned the case until October 6, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendants be remanded in custody pending further proceedings.
Sources familiar with the investigation disclosed that Owoh went missing on February 23, 2022, along the Orlu Road in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State while travelling in a silver-coloured Pontiac Vibe en route to Awka.
The case is expected to proceed when trial begins before the Federal High Court next month.
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