DSS Clears Carpenter of Ansaru Terror Links, Hands Him ₦3M to Rebuild His Life
Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has released Mustapha Marwana, a Katsina-based carpenter arrested over alleged links to the Ansaru terrorist group, after investigations cleared him of all charges.
To help him rebuild his livelihood, DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi approved an initial compensation of ₦3 million.
The Arrest and Investigation
Marwana was arrested on June 4, 2026, in Utako, Abuja, alongside three other suspects. The arrests were part of an active security investigation into the abduction and killing of schoolchildren and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
While the other three suspects were identified as active members of the Ansaru terrorist group, a specialized DSS investigation panel found absolutely no evidence linking Marwana to the group. Investigators confirmed he had no involvement in terrorism financing, logistics, or operational activities.
Rebuilding a Livelihood
Following his clearance, Director-General Ajayi ordered Marwana’s immediate release. The carpenter was handed over to his legal counsel, Oghene Forgive.
Marwana expressed deep gratitude to the DSS leadership for the ₦3 million financial assistance, calling it a vital opportunity to restart his life. His lawyer also commended the DSS for its objective review and for prioritizing justice once insufficient evidence was established.
A Growing Trend of Human Rights Reforms
The DSS stated that Marwana’s compensation is not an isolated incident, but part of a structural shift under its current leadership to balance national security with human rights.
Security sources cited two other recent cases of wrongful arrest compensation. Nura Idris, a farmer, was arrested in June 2024 over alleged Boko Haram links. He was cleared, released, and compensated with ₦3 million.
Also, Chineze Ozoadibe, a businesswoman, was released in October 2025 after allegations against her were proved false. She received ₦10 million and a pledge for business rehabilitation support.
The intelligence agency maintains that providing financial restitution and reintegration support to cleared individuals is central to protecting the dignity of Nigerian citizens.
