DSS Arraigns Retired Officer Over Alleged IPOB Links

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned one of its retired officers, Nwaogu Ihechimere Ezeakolam, before the Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly associating with the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

Ezeakolam was brought to trial on Thursday, August 6, on a four-count charge before Justice Mohammed Garba Umar. The charges, filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo (SAN), accuse him of rendering support and material assistance to IPOB, joining the group despite its proscription, and posting social media messages aimed at advancing its cause.

The offences are said to contravene provisions of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022, as well as the Cybercrimes Act, 2015.

Ezeakolam pleaded not guilty when the charges were read. DSS counsel, Memunat Oladunjoye, requested a date for trial commencement, while defence lawyer, Godfirst Maduka, sought time to file a bail application. Justice Umar fixed October 29 for the opening of trial and ordered that the accused be remanded at Kuje prison pending his bail hearing.

The case underscores the government’s continued crackdown on individuals accused of supporting IPOB, which remains banned under Nigerian law.

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