DSS Frees Man Wrongfully Accused of Boko Haram Ties, Awards Him N3 Million in Compensation

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has approved the release of a Kaduna farmer, Nura Idris, after an internal review cleared him of allegations linking him to Boko Haram terrorists.

Idris, a farmer and livestock rearer from Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was arrested by another security agency in Suleja, Niger State, in June 2024 over suspected terr%rist links before being transferred to DSS custody.

A DSS investigation panel later found no evidence to support the allegations. Following the review, the Director-General ordered his immediate release and approved N3 million compensation to help him meet his immediate needs. The Service also pledged to support him in rebuilding his business.

Speaking after his release, Idris thanked the DSS leadership, saying the financial support would help him restart his life.

“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 expressed gratitude to the DSS Director-General, describing the gesture as compassionate and assuring that the money would be put to good use.

According to security sources, the release is part of an internal review launched by the DSS to reassess inherited and prolonged detention cases and ensure that those wrongfully detained are freed.

The sources added that the Service also provides medical, psychological and reintegration support to some released detainees, including assistance in establishing businesses.

They further disclosed that more than 30 cases have been reviewed under the exercise, with over N300 million paid in compensation, describing the initiative as part of the DSS’s commitment to accountability, justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.