A Nigerian, Emmanuel Osase, accused of ties with ISIS, is to face 60-day detention by a Federal High Court in Abuja, as ordered by Justice Inyang Ekwo.
The court granted the motion ex-parte filed by the Department of State Services, citing the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. Counsel A. A Ugee sought the detention to conclude the investigation.
Justice Ekwo, granting the request, said, "Upon studying the averments in the affidavit, I hereby grant the relief as prayed." The matter adjourns till June 3, 2024.
Osase, arrested on March 11, stands accused of spreading ISIS messages, opposing Nigeria's democratic system, and inciting terrorist attacks. The Department of State Services, through Ahmed Abubakar, requested his detention for 60 days to avoid compromising the investigation.
Abubakar revealed Osase's prior terrorism-related conviction in France and subsequent deportation. Despite this, Osase allegedly remains involved in terrorist activities, including engagement with a proscribed pro-ISIS online media group called "al-Alawn Media Foundation."
During his arrest, Osase formatted his phone, indicating an attempt to erase suspicious content. The Department of State Services noted that the threat Osase poses to national security and urged the court to prevent his release to ensure a thorough investigation.
Abubakar highlighted Osase's cooperation in providing crucial information for apprehending other suspects. Therefore, the Department of State Services stressed the need for continued detention to safeguard Nigeria's security and global interests.
