BREAKING: Court Orders Immediate Release Of Cleric Held Over Alleged Coup Plot

In his ruling, Justice Peter Lifu declared that the cleric’s detention by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS) violated his fundamental human rights.

The judge held that the 75-year-old was held unlawfully for more than two months without trial, contrary to Sections 35 and 36 of the Constitution.

As part of the judgment, the court awarded ₦2 million in damages against the DIA and DSS, to be paid to the cleric.

Justice Lifu also ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Jaiz Bank to pay ₦1 million each for freezing his account without obtaining a court order.

The court further directed the security agencies to issue a public apology to Zaria for breaching his rights.

Justice Lifu faulted the DIA for ignoring court directives, including its failure to produce the cleric in court, stressing that all agencies must operate within the law.

Zaria was arrested in December 2025 over alleged links to a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu. Security agencies claimed he received ₦2 million from a suspect connected to the alleged plot. Although he agreed to forfeit the funds, he remained in detention while investigations continued.

The cleric, however, denied any involvement, explaining that the money was sent by one of his followers.

The court also instructed the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure the ruling is enforced without delay.

Justice Lifu warned that Nigeria must uphold its obligations under international human rights conventions and avoid actions that could amount to victimisation.