The Department of State Services has released a carpenter arrested over the abduction and killing of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after investigators reportedly found no evidence linking him to the attack.
The artisan, identified as Mustapha Marwana, was released on the directive of the DSS Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, following an investigation into allegations connecting him with the incident.
A security source familiar with the case said the investigation established that Marwana, who is originally from Katsina State, was neither a member of a terrorist organisation nor involved in the activities of Ansaru.
According to the source, investigators found no evidence linking him to the group’s membership, financing, logistics or operational activities.
Following the outcome of the investigation, Ajayi reportedly ordered Marwana’s immediate release and approved an initial N3 million compensation to assist him with his immediate needs and help him resume his livelihood.
Marwana was subsequently released into the custody of his lawyer, Oghene Forgive.
The carpenter reportedly expressed appreciation to the DSS leadership for what he described as a compassionate response following the conclusion of the investigation.
His lawyer also commended the DSS Director-General for ensuring that his client was cleared after the investigation and for approving the financial assistance.
The source said the compensation formed part of measures being introduced by the current DSS leadership to support individuals cleared after investigations and assist them in returning to normal life.
The source further claimed that since Ajayi became DSS Director-General, more than N300 million had been paid as compensation in various cases involving individuals who were cleared after investigations.
The development comes months after the May 15 attack on Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area.
Suspected Ansaru terrorists reportedly abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers during the attack. Two of the victims were killed, while the remaining captives were rescued on July 10 following a military operation.
Several suspects have subsequently been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja in connection with the attack.
Three suspects have reportedly been sentenced to life imprisonment after pleading guilty to terrorism-related offences, while other defendants, including two alleged Ansaru commanders, are still facing trial.
