DSS Arraigns Five Over Oyo School Abductions

The Department of State Services (DSS) arraigned five suspected members of the Ansaru terrorist group on Wednesday over the May 15 kidnapping of 46 pupils and teachers in Oyo State and the murder of two victims.

Prosecutors charged Mahmud Muhammad, Abubakar Abbas, Abdulrazak Umar, Yunusa Musa, and Shamsu Adamu Sani before a Federal High Court in Abuja with conspiracy, aiding terrorism, and concealing information.

Prosecutors alleged that leaders Muhammad and Abbas commanded their foot soldiers to execute abductions and killings across Nigeria to force government concessions if security forces arrested them.

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The six-count charge detailed that foot soldiers carried out the directive on May 15, 2026, abducting students and staff from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area before decapitating victims Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye.

DSS arraigns five over Oyo school abductions (News Central TV) — DSS arraigns five over Oyo school abductions. Credit: ThisDayLive

All five defendants pleaded not guilty to every count under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Following their pleas, Justice Salim Ibrahim ordered the DSS to retain the suspects in protective custody, provide adequate medical care, and return to court on September 25 for trial.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.