Nigeria's Department of State Services has intensified its crackdown on security threats by prosecuting two individuals for serious offenses including terrorism and attempts to overthrow the government.
Terrorism Suspect Faces Multiple Charges
The security agency presented Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki before the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing him of orchestrating the deadly 2012 assault on the Deeper Life Bible Church in Okene, Kogi State. Obadaki confronts six criminal counts that include membership in a terrorist organization, conspiracy, providing support to terrorist operations, withholding critical information, engaging in terrorist acts, and escaping from legal detention.
During court proceedings, the defendant admitted guilt solely for the prison escape charge while contesting the other five allegations. Justice Joyce Obehi has scheduled January 26, 2026 as the date to examine evidence supporting the confessed offense and hear arguments concerning the disputed charges.
Violent Criminal History Revealed
Investigations uncover Obadaki's extensive involvement in major violent incidents across Nigeria. Following the Okene church massacre that claimed numerous lives, security sources indicate he commanded a criminal group that attacked five commercial banks in Uromi, Edo State. This violent robbery operation resulted in multiple fatalities and substantial financial losses.
Obadaki had been detained at Kuje Prison until the July 2022 security breach that enabled his escape. According to intelligence reports, the suspect later confessed to planning the prison break after being moved from Kabba Custodial Centre in June 2022.
Social Media Coup Advocacy Case
In a separate prosecution, the DSS brought Innocent Chukwuemeka before another Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly using his X (formerly Twitter) account to promote military takeover of Nigeria's government. Chukwuemeka faces six counts related to disseminating false information that could provoke public panic and engaging in cyberstalking activities.
The defendant entered a not guilty plea to all charges. The court has similarly adjourned his case to January 26, 2026 and mandated that he remains in DSS custody throughout the trial period.
Continued Security Operations
These legal actions occur merely two days after the DSS secured the conviction of Hussaini Ismaila, an ISWAP commander who received a 20-year prison sentence. The consecutive prosecutions demonstrate the security agency's determined campaign against threats to national stability.
The Nigerian government continues to prioritize counterterrorism efforts and maintaining constitutional order through systematic legal proceedings against individuals accused of endangering public safety and national security.
