The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a carpenter, Mustapha Marwana, who was arrested over the abduction and killing of pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State.
Tosin Ajayi, the service’s director-general, authorized his release after investigators found no evidence linking him to the attack.
A security source who is familiar with the matter but wishes to remain anonymous stated that a DSS panel conducted a comprehensive investigation into Marwana’s alleged role in the incident before clearing him.
The panel was alleged to have determined that the Katsina-born artisan was not a member of any terrorist organization and had no operational ties to the Ansaru terrorist group responsible for the attack.
“Following the review, investigators found no evidence linking the carpenter to membership, financing, logistics, or operational activities of the terrorist group.
“Consequently, the DSS DG ordered his immediate release and approved the payment of an initial N3 million as compensation to assist him in meeting his immediate needs and restarting his livelihood.
“Mustapha was subsequently released to his lawyer, Oghene Forgive, who received him following his discharge from custody,” the source said.
According to a source, Marwana expressed gratitude to the DG for his compassionate and humane intervention.
Forgive, who received Marwana upon his release, also expressed gratitude to the DG for his generosity and dedication to establishing his client’s innocence.
The compensation is part of DSS leadership’s efforts to support individuals cleared after investigations and facilitate their reintegration into society.
“Since his appointment as DSS DG, Ajayi has been balancing national security responsibilities with respect for the rights and dignity of citizens, resulting in the payment of over N300m as compensation.
“There are many more instances where DSS investigations have established innocence and have been followed by efforts to facilitate reintegration. These are the kind of measures through which the service is strengthening public confidence and building trust,” the source added.
On May 15, gunmen suspected of being Ansaru terrorists raided Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire, kidnapping 39 students and seven instructors.
Two of the victims were slain before the remaining captives were released on July 10, following a military raid.
Since then, security authorities have brought numerous people linked to the attack before the Federal High Court in Abuja, with three already condemned to life in prison after pleading guilty to terrorism-related crimes, while others, including two Ansaru commanders, are on trial.
