The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has ordered the immediate release of a man, Nura Idris, who was wrongly accused of having links with Boko Haram following a review of his case.
The decision followed the conclusion of an internal DSS investigation panel, which cleared Idris of all allegations of involvement with the terrorist group.
In addition to his release, the DSS approved a compensation package of N3 million to support his immediate needs and assist him in rebuilding his livelihood.
Security sources said Idris, a farmer and livestock rearer from Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was arrested in June 2024 in Suleja, Niger State, by another security agency over alleged terrorist links before being transferred to DSS custody.
A comprehensive review of the case later found no evidence linking him to any terrorist activity, prompting the DSS leadership to order his release and financial compensation.
After regaining his freedom, Idris expressed gratitude to the DSS, saying the support would help him restart his life and business. His father also commended the agency for what he described as its compassion and fairness.
According to sources, the DSS also provides follow-up support for some released detainees, including psychological care, medical assistance, and business support aimed at reintegration into society.
The latest release is part of an ongoing internal review process initiated by the Service to reassess long-standing detention cases and ensure that individuals found innocent are not unjustly held.
Sources within the DSS said the exercise reflects the agency’s commitment to accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights alongside national security responsibilities.
The sources also referenced previous cases reviewed under the initiative, including that of Sunday Ifedi and his wife, Calista, who were arrested in 2021 and later released after being cleared of alleged links to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Ifedi was reportedly compensated with N10 million following his release.
Other cases cited include that of businesswoman Chineze Ozoadibe, who received N10 million compensation after her release, and Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor alongside others cleared of IPOB-related allegations, each of whom received financial support after being freed.
More recently, Ya’u Mohammed of Yobe State was also released after investigations confirmed he had no ties to terrorism, and was given N2 million to assist with reintegration.
According to the DSS sources, more than 30 cases have been reviewed so far under the programme, with over N300 million reportedly paid in compensation, as part of efforts to strengthen public confidence in the service
