DSS frees man cleared of Boko Haram links, pays N3m compensation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released one Nura Idris, who was wrongfully linked to Boko Haram insurgents, after an internal review cleared him of any involvement with the terror group.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the release followed a review by a DSS investigation panel, which found no evidence to support allegations that Idris collaborated with terrorists.

The publication said Oluwatosin Ajayi, director-general of the DSS, ordered Idris’ immediate release and approved a N3 million compensation package to help him restart his life.

The report added that the DSS boss also pledged to support the Kaduna farmer in rebuilding his business.

A security source told the publication that Idris, a farmer and livestock rearer from Soba LGA 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.

The source said the DSS review panel subsequently found no basis for the allegations after conducting a thorough investigation of the case.

Receiving the compensation, Idris expressed appreciation to the DSS leadership.

“I thank the DGSS for his kindness. I was well treated in DSS custody and I pray that Allah rewards the DGSS immensely,” the publication quoted him as saying.

His father, Yusuf Idris, also thanked the DSS director-general for the “compassion and generosity”, saying the compensation would be put to good use.

A security source said the agency usually follows up with individuals who were wrongly detained by providing psychological and medical support before helping them establish businesses of their choice.

“When such cases are recorded, the DSS would usually follow up with the detainee, provide psychological and medical support, after which the agency would further set up any business of the victim’s choice,” the source said.

The source added that Idris’ release forms part of an internal review exercise initiated by the DSS last year to reassess inherited cases and ensure that innocent persons are not kept in prolonged detention.

“The setting free and compensations across multiple cases underscores the DSS’s growing reputation for institutional integrity and humanness,” the source added.

“The service under the current DG has continued to show that safeguarding national security and citizens must go hand in hand with upholding the rights and dignity of citizens.” (TheCable)