DSS Moves Islamic Cleric Sheikh Zaria to Court for Trial

The Department of State Services (DSS) has brought Sheikh Abdukadir Sani Zaria, an Islamic scholar, to the Federal High Court in Abuja for trial concerning allegations of a coup plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Sheikh Zaria was arrested in December 2025 and named among six individuals charged with conspiracy and other felonies related to the alleged plot.

The charges include providing support to coup plotters and retaining N2 million in a bank account linked to the plot. Justice Peter Odo Lifu ordered the immediate unconditional release of Sheikh Zaria after he had been detained for four months without trial, citing violations of his fundamental rights.

The DSS was also directed to pay him N1 million in compensation for freezing his bank account without a court order and to issue a public apology. The court emphasized the need for compliance with legal standards and the protection of citizens' rights.