The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a Kaduna farmer who was wrongly accused of having links to the Boko Haram terrorist group, following an internal investigation that cleared him of all allegations.
The beneficiary, Nura Idris, regained his freedom after a review panel set up by the DSS found no evidence connecting him to terrorism. The agency also approved a ₦3 million compensation package to help him rebuild his life and business after the wrongful detention.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, personally ordered Idris’ immediate release after reviewing the findings of the investigation.
The report revealed that Idris, a farmer and livestock rearer from Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was arrested in Suleja, Niger State, in June 2024 by another security agency over alleged terrorist links before he was transferred to DSS custody.
However, after conducting a detailed investigation, the DSS concluded that there was no credible evidence linking him to Boko Haram or any terrorist activities.
In addition to the compensation, the DSS leadership reportedly pledged further support to help Idris revive his farming and livestock business.
Reacting to his release, Idris expressed gratitude to the agency and its leadership.
“I thank the DGSS for his kindness. I was well treated in DSS custody, and I pray that Allah rewards the DGSS immensely,” he said.
His father, Yusuf Idris, also appreciated the DSS for what he described as its compassion and generosity, promising that the compensation would be used wisely.
A security source disclosed that the DSS has a policy of supporting individuals who were wrongly detained by offering psychological and medical care before assisting them in establishing businesses of their choice.
The source added that Idris’ release forms part of an ongoing internal review launched by the DSS to reassess inherited cases and ensure innocent individuals are not held in prolonged detention.
According to the source, the exercise reflects the agency’s commitment to balancing national security with the protection of citizens’ rights and dignity.
Source: Zagazola Makama
