The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a carpenter, Mustapha Marwana, after an investigation reportedly cleared him of involvement in the May 15 abduction and killing of pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State.
Marwana, a Katsina-born artisan, had been arrested over suspicions that he was connected to the attack, which was blamed on suspected members of the Ansaru terrorist group.
A security source said the Director-General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, ordered his immediate release after a panel constituted by the agency found no evidence connecting him to the terrorist organisation or the school attack.
According to the source, investigators conducted a detailed review of allegations against Marwana before concluding that he had no operational relationship with Ansaru.
The investigation reportedly found no evidence that he participated in the group’s activities through membership, financing, logistics or operational support.
“Following the review, investigators found no evidence linking the carpenter to membership, financing, logistics or operational activities of the terrorist group,” the source said.
Following the findings, Ajayi reportedly ordered Marwana’s release and approved an initial ₦3 million compensation to help him address his immediate needs and restart his livelihood following his detention.
“Consequently, the DSS DG ordered his immediate release and approved the payment of initial N3 million as compensation to assist him in meeting his immediate needs and restarting livelihood.”
Marwana was subsequently released to his lawyer, Oghene Forgive, following his discharge from DSS custody.
The arrest was connected to the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire, Oyo State, during which gunmen suspected to be Ansaru members abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.
The attackers reportedly invaded Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School and L.A. Primary School, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers.
Two of the abducted victims were reportedly killed during the ordeal.
The remaining captives regained their freedom on July 10 following a military operation.
Investigations into the attack have resulted in the prosecution of several suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Three defendants have reportedly been sentenced to life imprisonment after pleading guilty to terrorism-related offences.
Other suspects, including two alleged Ansaru commanders, are said to remain on trial in connection with the attack.
Marwana’s release, however, means authorities found insufficient evidence to connect him to the terrorist group or its alleged activities following the DSS investigation.
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