ABUJA, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted an interim order to the State Security Service, SSS, also known as the Department for State Security Services, DSS, for the 60-day detention of Emmanuel Osase, a Nigerian national suspected of affiliations with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
The decision, made on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, by Judge Inyang Ekwo, came after SSS counsel A.A. Ugee advocated for extended custody to facilitate further investigations into Mr Osase’s activities.
Osase, arrested on March 11, is accused of spreading ISIS ideologies, challenging Nigeria’s democratic governance, and advocating for terrorist attacks against the nation and its symbols of sovereignty.
DOWNLOAD: Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette TPP Act 2022
This court’s decision underscores the judiciary’s support for stringent measures in national security concerns, particularly relating to terrorism.
According to an affidavit by Ahmad Abubakar, an SSS operative, the detention is crucial to prevent any compromise to the ongoing investigation.
Abubakar detailed Osase’s prior conviction in France for terrorism-related offenses and subsequent deportation after serving a five-year sentence.
Despite his past incarceration, Osase allegedly continues to engage in activities that bolster terrorist ideologies, specifically through involvement with al-Alawn Media Foundation, an online media group known for promoting ISIS propaganda.
The affidavit further states that Osase’s actions pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s security and calls for an exhaustive investigation to mitigate any potential risks he may pose to the nation or the international community.
The SSS believes Osase’s cooperation could be pivotal in apprehending other fugitive members of the terrorist network.
This judicial authorisation for Osase’s detention, rooted in the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022, marks a critical step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism within its borders.
The case has been adjourned until June 3, when the court expects a report on the progress of the investigation.
