DSS Frees, Compensates Cleared Oyo Kidnapping Suspect With N3m

​The Department of State Services (DSS) has cleared and released a Katsina-born artisan, Mustapha Marwana, who was wrongfully arrested over his alleged connection to the mass abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

​According to a security source, the Director-General of the Service, Tosin Ajayi, ordered Marwana’s immediate release and approved a compensation package of N3 million to help him restart his livelihood following a comprehensive investigation.

​Thorough Probe Clears Artisan

​Marwana, a carpenter, was initially detained following the May 15 invasion of Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire, where gunmen suspected to be Ansaru terrorists abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers. Two victims tragically lost their lives before military operations forced the release of the remaining captives on July 10.

​However, a high-level investigative panel constituted by the DSS thoroughly reviewed Marwana’s case and concluded that he had no ties to the terror network.

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​“Following the review, investigators found no evidence linking the carpenter to membership, financing, logistics, or operational activities of the terrorist group,” a security source disclosed.

​Following his discharge from custody, Marwana was handed over to his legal counsel, Oghene Forgive. Sources close to the service noted that the financial compensation aligns with the current leadership’s broader initiative to safeguard citizens’ rights, foster public trust, and adequately support individuals mistakenly caught up in security sweeps.

​Ongoing Prosecutions

​Meanwhile, the legal battle against the actual perpetrators of the Oriire school attack continues to gather pace. Several suspects have been formally arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Three individuals have already pleaded guilty to terrorism-related charges and sentenced to life imprisonment, while other suspects, including two high-profile Ansaru commanders, remain on trial.