The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the alleged abduction and killing of its operative, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
The defendants — Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa — were arraigned on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism, kidnapping and unlawful possession of firearms before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The prosecution alleged that the defendants abducted Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State, and subsequently caused his death.
They were also accused of belonging to IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as unlawfully possessing firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Prosecution counsel, Munirat Oladunjoye, told the court that three witnesses were available to testify during the trial.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik subsequently adjourned the case until October 6, 2026, for commencement of trial and ordered that the four defendants be remanded in DSS custody.
Security sources said Owoh disappeared on February 23, 2022, along the Orlu Road in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State while travelling to Awka.
