DSS gives updates on terrorism trials, pledges justice for victims

The Department of State Services (DSS) has given fresh updates on the prosecution of several terrorism suspects, reaffirming its commitment to upholding justice and peace in Nigeria.

In a statement by its Deputy Director of Public Relations, Favour Dozie, the DSS said Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, will on November 19 continue the trial of Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Abubakar Abba (aka Isah Adam/Mahmud Al-Nigeri) — both leaders of ANSARU, an Al-Qaeda affiliate in Nigeria.

Usman, the self-styled “Emir of ANSARU,” allegedly coordinated sleeper cells and financed terrorism through kidnappings and robberies.

Abba reportedly led a cell around Kainji National Park. Both are facing a 32-count charge.

Usman has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of illegal mining, while Abba pleaded not guilty.

The DSS is also prosecuting Khalid Al-Barnawi, mastermind of the 2011 UN building bombing in Abuja, along with four others.

Their delayed trial has now been slated for accelerated hearing.

Five men are also on trial over the June 2022 St. Francis Catholic Church attack in Owo, which killed over 40 people and injured more than 100.

They were denied bail after being accused of links to the Al Shabab terrorist group.

In Benue State, the DSS has filed terrorism charges against suspects arrested over the June 2025 Yelwata massacre, which left dozens dead and 107 injured.

DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi said the agency will continue to ensure terrorists are held accountable under the law.

“We shall make all suspects answer for disrupting the peace of our country, in consonance with the rule of law,” he said.