The defendants—Mahmud Muhammad (Abu Bara’a), Abbas Mukhtar, Abubakar Abbas (Isah Adam), Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri, Abdulrazak Umar (Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (Abu Yunusa Bin Musa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (Abu Itisar)—pleaded not guilty to charges including terrorism, conspiracy, and aiding terrorism.
The Federal Government alleges that Muhammad and Abbas directed Ansaru members to kidnap and murder victims to force the government into compliance with their demands. A count against them states, “...you ordered your foot soldiers... to kidnap and kill victims across the country if arrested, to compel the government to accede to your demands.”
The prosecution contends that the kidnapping resulted in the brutal decapitation of two individuals, Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye, following their abduction in May.
Additionally, the DSS has accused the defendants of failing to inform law enforcement about the planned attacks, with Umar, Musa, and Sani facing separate charges for conspiracy and aiding in the kidnappings.
In court, Dr. Caliatus Eze, representing the prosecution, requested that the defendants be held in protective custody as the trial unfolds. Justice Salim Ibrahim agreed, ordering their remand in DSS custody while ensuring they have access to legal counsel and medical care.
The case is set to resume on September 25. This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence attributed to the Ansaru terrorist group, which has been linked to Al-Qaeda.
Earlier this month, two senior Ansaru commanders received life sentences for related crimes, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by this organization. The Federal Government continues to strengthen its response to terrorism as it seeks justice for the victims of these heinous acts.
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