DSS Releases Four IPOB Suspects, Grants N20 Million Compensation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released four suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) after investigations cleared them of any allegations. The suspects, Emele Uduma Ibe, Berefgagha Appah, Ondokeyilemi Aggry, and Oyeinmokebebeton Aggry, were arrested in May 2022 in Bayelsa State.

Each will receive N5 million as compensation, totaling N20 million. Investigations revealed they were misled into believing they would receive monthly payments under the Federal Government’s Amnesty Programme.

DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi approved their release and compensation following the conclusion of the investigations. Their lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, praised the DSS for its professionalism and respect for citizens' rights.

Ibe expressed gratitude for his release, calling it the happiest day of his life. This release is part of a broader review of over 300 terrorism-related cases initiated by Ajayi in 2024, which has led to the release of several detainees and over N1 billion in compensation payments.