DSS Arraigns Two Over Terrorism, Coup Incitement

By MAHMOOD MALIK MUSA (M.M.M.) IBRAHIM

THE Department of State Services on Thursday charged two men before Federal High Courts in Abuja for terrorism-related offences and calls for a coup, days after securing a 20-year sentence against ISWAP commander Hussaini Ismaila.

In one case, the DSS arraigned Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki, alleged mastermind of the 2012 attack on Deeper Life Bible Church in Okene, Kogi State. He faces six counts, including belonging to a terrorist group, aiding terrorism, harbouring information, and escaping from custody. He pleaded guilty only to the escape charge, denying the rest. Justice Joyce Obehi adjourned the matter to 26 January 2026 for a review of the guilty plea and trial on the remaining counts.

In a separate courtroom, the DSS arraigned Innocent Chukwuemeka, accused of using his X (formerly Twitter) account to call for a military takeover. He faces six charges, including publishing false information and cyberstalking. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in DSS custody until 26 January 2026.

Obadaki, who escaped during the July 2022 Kuje prison jailbreak, was previously linked to deadly bank raids in Edo State. Security sources say he later admitted to planning the jailbreak after being moved from Kabba Custodial Centre.