The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Nura Idris, who was wrongly linked to Boko Haram insurgents, after an internal review cleared him of any involvement with the terrorist group.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the release followed a review by a DSS investigation panel, which found no evidence to support allegations that Idris collaborated with terrorists.
The publication said Oluwatosin Ajayi, director-general of the DSS, ordered Idris’ immediate release and approved a ₦3 million compensation package to help him restart his life.
The report added that the DSS boss also pledged to support the Kaduna farmer in rebuilding his business.
A security source told the publication that Idris, a farmer and livestock rearer from Soba LGA of Kaduna State, was arrested in Suleja, Niger State, in June 2024 by another security agency over alleged terrorist links before being transferred to DSS custody.
The source said the DSS review panel subsequently found no basis for the allegations after conducting a thorough investigation into the case.
Receiving the compensation, Idris expressed appreciation to the DSS leadership.
“I thank the DGSS for his kindness. I was well treated in DSS custody, and I pray that Allah rewards the DGSS immensely,” the publication quoted him as saying.
His father, Yusuf Idris, also thanked the DSS director-general for his “compassion and generosity,” saying the compensation would be put to good use.
A security source said the agency usually follows up with individuals who were wrongly detained by providing psychological and medical support before helping them establish businesses of their choice.
“When such cases are recorded, the DSS usually follows up with the detainee, provides psychological and medical support, after which the agency helps establish a business of the victim’s choice,” the source said.
The source added that Idris’ release forms part of an internal review exercise initiated by the DSS last year to reassess inherited cases and ensure that innocent persons are not remain in prolonged detention.
“The release of wrongly detained persons and the compensation awarded across multiple cases underscore the DSS’s growing reputation for institutional integrity and humanity,” the source added.
“Under the current DG, the service has continued to demonstrate that safeguarding national security and protecting citizens must go hand in hand with upholding their rights and dignity.”
