•DSS balances national security imperatives with fundamental human rights, setting new standards.
•Over 125 terrorists convicted since Tosin Ajayi took charge, marking renewed commitment to justice.
A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), led by Nigeria Integrity Watch (NIW), has praised the Department of State Services (DSS) for its swift prosecution of high-profile terrorism suspects, highlighting the agency’s adherence to international human rights standards under the leadership of Director-General Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi.
In a statement released on Friday, Dr. John Samuel Nangi, NIW’s National Convener, commended DSS for fast-tracking trials without compromising due process. The coalition underscored key legal victories, including the conviction of ISWAP leader Ismaila (alias Mai Tangaran), as well as the ongoing prosecution of Abdulmumin Ibrahim Otaru (Abu Mikdad), an ISWAP commander implicated in attacks on police stations and custodial centers in Kogi State.
“These cases reflect a significant shift towards accountability and the rule of law,” Dr. Nangi said. “Under Mr. Ajayi’s leadership, DSS has demonstrated that robust national security operations can coexist with respect for fundamental human rights.”
Since Mr. Ajayi assumed office, the DSS has successfully secured convictions for over 125 terrorists, marking a notable improvement in judicial efficiency. Among these successes are high-profile cases involving Khalid Al-Barnawi, accused mastermind of the 2011 United Nations building bombing; five suspects linked to the June 2022 Owo church massacre; and terrorist financiers including ANSARU leaders Mahmud Muhammad Usman, recently sentenced to 15 years, and Abubakar Abba, charged with terrorism financing and illegal mining activities.
The coalition’s commendation emphasizes the DSS’s strengthened resolve to dismantle terror networks while upholding legal and human rights obligations—a balance critical to Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism.
