Court Drama As DSS Arraigns Four Suspected IPOB Members Over Operative’s D**th

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four alleged members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the alleged kidnapping and killing of one of its operatives, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.

The defendants, identified as Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa, were brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the charges border on terrorism, kidnapping and unlawful possession of firearms.

The prosecution alleged that the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and abducted Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.

The DSS further alleged that the operative was held hostage and later killed during the incident. Prosecutors also claimed that the defendants were members of IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and were involved in activities allegedly connected to terrorism.

The four defendants were also accused of illegally possessing firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, allegedly in connection with the offences.

Prosecution counsel, Munirat Oladunjoye, asked the court to schedule the matter for trial and informed Justice Abdulmalik that the DSS had three witnesses prepared to testify.

Following the submissions, the judge fixed October 6, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody pending further proceedings.

The allegations against the defendants are yet to be proven in court, and they remain presumed innocent unless and until found guilty by the court.