DSS frees farmer cleared of Boko Haram links, pays compensation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a farmer, Nura Idris, after an investigation revealed he never worked with the Boko Haram insurgent group.
According to Daily Nigerian, DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi ordered Idris’ release and approved a payment of N3m to help him rebuild his life and business.

Idris, a farmer and herder from Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was arrested in Suleja, Niger State, in 2024 over allegations of having ties to terrorists before he was handed over to the DSS.

A review panel set up by the DSS found no evidence connecting him to terrorist activities, leading to an immediate order for his release.

Speaking after regaining his freedom, Idris praised the DSS leadership for the way he was treated while in detention. He said the money given to him would help him restart his life.

Security sources said the DSS is reviewing old cases involving people who have been held for long to ensure that innocent individuals are not kept in custody unnecessarily.

Reports also said that more than 30 people whose cases were reviewed have received over N300m in compensation, as the DSS says the exercise reflects its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights while safeguarding national security.