Overview of Ongoing Terrorism Prosecutions in Nigeria
The Department of State Services (DSS) has provided a detailed update on the ongoing prosecution of several high-profile terrorism cases across Nigeria. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability and justice under the rule of law, emphasizing that all actions are conducted within the framework of legal procedures.
One of the most notable cases involves two internationally wanted terrorism suspects, Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Abubakar Abba. Their trial is set to continue on November 19 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. This information was disclosed by the DSS’s Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Douzie, in a statement released on Tuesday evening.
Background on the Suspects
Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and Abba, also referred to as Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri, were arrested in a high-risk, intelligence-led counterterrorism operation in July after months of surveillance. They were captured following a prolonged investigation into their activities.
The DSS revealed that these two individuals are believed to be leaders of ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate. Usman, who is self-styled as the Emir of ANSARU, is alleged to have coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria. He is also accused of masterminding several high-profile kidnappings and robberies, which were used to finance terrorism over the years.
Abba, serving as Usman’s chief of staff and deputy, is said to have led the so-called “Mahmudawa” cell, which operated around the Kainji National Park, located on the border between the states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the Republic of Benin. According to a statement from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Mamuda received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to have specialized in weapons handling and IED fabrication.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Usman and Abba are being tried on a 32-count terrorism charge, with Usman pleading guilty to one count related to illegal mining and receiving a 15-year sentence. Abba, however, pleaded not guilty to all 32 counts.
In another case, the DSS is prosecuting Khalid Al-Barnawi, who is accused of being the mastermind behind the August 26, 2011, bombing of the United Nations Complex in Abuja. The attack resulted in 20 deaths and over 70 injuries. Al-Barnawi, captured in 2016, is facing trial alongside four other suspects. The trial has faced delays due to legal and procedural issues, including instances where the suspects were brought to court without counsel. Recently, the DSS requested accelerated hearing, which was granted by Justice Nwite.
Other Terrorist Cases
Another significant case involves five men standing trial for their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. The attack left more than 40 people dead and over 100 injured. The five defendants—Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar—are charged with being members of Al Shabab, a terrorist group with a cell in Kogi State. They pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them, leading to their remand in custody.
Justice Nwite rejected their request for bail, citing the severity of the charges and the strength of the evidence against them. The judge noted that the DSS's argument about the likelihood of the defendants jumping bail was deemed credible.
Additional Trials and Investigations
Other ongoing trials include those connected to the Yelwata massacre in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on June 13, 2025. The attack, which resulted in dozens of deaths and 107 injuries, drew global condemnation. In response, President Bola Tinubu visited the state and demanded the arrest of the perpetrators.
On June 24, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police announced the arrest of 26 suspects in connection with the massacre. In August 2025, the DSS filed terrorism-related charges against nine suspects, with two others still at large. These suspects are now undergoing trial, with the defendants pleading not guilty.
Commitment to Justice and Accountability
Director General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, emphasized the agency’s resolve to combat terrorism through lawful means. He stated that the arrests and trials reflect the diligence of Nigeria’s security agencies in addressing terrorism. Ajayi also highlighted that the cases being prosecuted by the DSS are separate from those handled by the military’s protective custody, with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation managing those cases.
The DSS remains committed to making all suspects accountable for their actions, ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the rule of law. This ongoing effort underscores the agency’s dedication to maintaining peace and security in Nigeria.