DSS arraigns four suspected IPOB members for killing operative

The Department of State Services has arraigned four alleged members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra over the kidnapping and killing of one of its operatives, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh. The defendants, Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa, were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge.

They are facing allegations bordering on terrorism, kidnapping and unlawful possession of firearms. According to the prosecution, the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and abducted Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.

The prosecution alleged that the DSS operative was taken hostage and subsequently killed during the operation. It further alleged that the defendants were members of IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, and participated in activities linked to terrorism.

The four men were also accused of unlawfully possessing firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offences. Prosecution counsel Munirat Oladunjoye asked the court to fix a date for trial, informing the judge that the DSS had three witnesses lined up to testify in the case.

Justice Abdulmalik subsequently fixed October 6, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody. The charges remain allegations, and the defendants have not been convicted of the offences.