The Department of State Services (DSS) says it is intensifying efforts to ensure swift prosecution of top-profile terrorism suspects across the country, as several trials resume before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Justice Emeka Nwite will on November 19 continue the trial of internationally-wanted terror suspects, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Abubakar Abba (aka Isah Adam/Mahmud Al-Nigeri), alleged leaders of ANSARU, a Nigeria-based Al-Qaeda affiliate.
The duo were arrested in July during a major intelligence-led operation after months of surveillance. Usman, described as the “Emir” of ANSARU, is accused of coordinating national sleeper cells and orchestrating high-profile kidnappings and robberies to fund terrorism. Abba, his alleged deputy, reportedly led the “Mahmudawa” cell operating around Kainji National Park.
The suspects face a 32-count terrorism charge filed in August. Usman pleaded guilty to an illegal mining charge and received a 15-year sentence, while Abba pleaded not guilty to all counts.
UN Bombing Case Back in Focus
The service is also pushing forward the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the August 26, 2011 bombing of the United Nations building in Abuja that killed 20 people and injured over 70.
Al-Barnawi and four co-defendants — Mohammed Bashir Saleh, Umar Mohammed Bello (aka Datti), Mohammed Salisu and Yakubu Nuhu (aka Bello Maishayi) — have faced lengthy trial delays over procedural issues, including lack of defence counsel. Justice Nwite recently granted accelerated hearing. A trial-within-trial was held on October 23–24, during which video confessions were played in court.
Owo Church Attack Suspects in DSS Custody
Five men were on August 11 arraigned over the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, where over 40 worshippers were killed and more than 100 injured.
They pleaded not guilty to a nine-count charge bordering on terrorism and alleged links to an Al-Shabab cell in Kogi State. Their bail request was refused on September 10.
Benue Massacre Suspects on Trial
Trials have also commenced for suspects linked to the June 13, 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, which left dozens dead and 107 people injured.
Nine suspects were charged in August, while two others remain at large. Additional defendants face charges for alleged reprisal attacks.
DSS Vows Continued Prosecution
DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi said the arrests and ongoing prosecutions demonstrate the commitment of security agencies to combat terrorism under the rule of law.
“The men we are prosecuting are separate from the hundreds of suspects under military custody being handled by the Attorney-General’s office. In July 2024, 125 terrorists were convicted,” Ajayi stated.
“We shall continue to ensure accountability for those who disrupt the peace of our country.”
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