In a bid to bolster national security measures, a Federal High Court in Abuja has authorized a 60-day detention period for Emmanuel Osase, a Nigerian suspected of having ties to the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The decision came in response to a motion ex-parte filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), designated as FHC/ABJ/CS/409/2024.
Emmanuel Osase, apprehended on March 11, faces allegations of disseminating ISIS propaganda, advocating against Nigeria’s democratic system, and inciting terrorist activities targeting the country and its symbols of sovereignty. The presiding judge, Inyang Ekwo, granted the detention order after considering the DSS’s petition, citing Section 66(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.
The DSS, in its submission, underscored the criticality of Osase’s continued detention to safeguard the ongoing investigation, asserting concerns over potential threats to national security. Ahmed Abubakar, a DSS official, emphasized Osase’s prior conviction in France for terrorism-related offenses and his purported involvement in further extremist activities, including association with the proscribed pro-ISIS online media group known as “al-Alawn Media Foundation.”
Abubakar further elaborated that Osase attempted to erase evidence of his activities by formatting his mobile device upon encountering security personnel. The DSS stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation to mitigate potential security risks posed by Osase’s alleged affiliations and activities.
The court’s decision to extend Osase’s detention reflects the gravity of the accusations and underscores the government’s commitment to preempting terrorist threats. The case is slated to resume on June 3, 2024, as investigative efforts persist to ascertain the extent of Osase’s involvement and address associated security concerns.
The detention order signifies Nigeria’s proactive stance in combating terrorism and underscores the imperative of robust measures to counter emerging threats. As authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding national security interests, the detention of suspected individuals like Osase underscores the nation’s resolve to uphold peace and stability.
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