-
DSS releases Kenneth Nwafor, an Abia indigene wrongfully arrested in 2022 over alleged IPOB links, and awards him ₦5 million compensation.
-
DG Oluwatosin Ajayi orders a full review of pending cases, leading to additional releases of three other Abia suspects.
-
DSS says the new leadership has adopted a culture of accountability, citing past compensations for wrongful detentions and operational errors
The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor, an indigene of Isuikwuato LGA in Abia State, who was arrested in July 2022 over alleged links to the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).
Nwafor was awarded ₦5 million compensation for wrongful arrest and will receive free medical care, following a directive from DSS Director General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanu May Miss Friday’s Court Hearing Over DSS Obstruction — Family Alleges
Security sources told Gistsmate that a fresh, detailed investigation ordered by the DG cleared Nwafor of any wrongdoing. “The DG instructed investigators to review all pending cases thoroughly. Nwafor’s file was one of them, and the evidence did not support the allegation,” the source said.
Three other Abia residents — Udemba, Onyedikachi and Eze — who were also arrested over suspected IPOB ties, were released after similar reviews.
According to the source, the DSS boss has prioritised accountability within the agency. He noted recent compensations under Ajayi, including ₦20 million paid to a Jos businessman accidentally shot during a 2016 operation and ₦10 million awarded to an Abuja businesswoman previously detained over alleged oil bunkering.
“Only a few months ago, three young men held over alleged IPOB membership were freed and compensated. Last month, the DG approved ₦10 million for an Abuja-based businesswoman and another ₦10 million shared among five others. This is the new culture under the current DSS leadership,” the source added.
