DSS Recaptures Ansaru Terrorist Mastermind Behind 2012 Deeper Life Church Attack in Kogi

The Department of State Services (DSS) has successfully recaptured Abdulazeez Obadaki, a notorious commander of the Ansaru terrorist faction widely believed to have masterminded the deadly mass shooting at the Deeper Life Bible Church near Okene, Kogi State, in August 2012. This tragic attack claimed the lives of 19 worshippers, including the church pastor, when three armed gunmen invaded the church during a Bible study session, plunging the congregation into darkness before opening fire indiscriminately.

Obadaki, also known by the alias “Bomboy,” later orchestrated other violent crimes, including an audacious bank robbery in Uromi, Edo State, in 2022, which resulted in multiple casualties and significant financial losses. Following his arrest, he escaped during a jailbreak at Kuje Custodial Centre in July 2022. He is also credited with masterminding the jailbreak through careful planning after his transfer from Kabba Custodial Centre.

After more than three years evading capture, DSS operatives, through a meticulous intelligence-driven operation, re-arrested Obadaki on a Friday morning in November 2025. The recapture marks a significant victory for Nigerian security agencies as they continue to dismantle terror networks and bring perpetrators to justice across the nation.

This arrest follows heightened efforts by the DSS in recent months, including the arraignment of suspects in connection with other terror attacks such as the 2022 Catholic Church incident in Owo, Ondo State. The continued crackdown reflects the secret police’s commitment under new leadership to expeditiously prosecute terrorists and safeguard Nigerian citizens from further violence caused by extremist groups.

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The 2012 attack remains one of the most chilling assaults on Christian worshippers in Nigeria, exacerbating religious tensions between communities. The state government at the time had imposed curfews and amplified surveillance around places of worship to restore order and prevent reprisals.

Authorities have asserted that the recapture of Obadaki will provide critical insights into the operations of Ansaru terrorists and aid in quelling their activities, continuing the broader national security agenda to secure Nigeria’s peace and territorial integrity.