DSS releases herder two year detention, pays N3 million

The Department of State Services has released Nura Idris, a herder and farmer from Kaduna State, after a review panel found no evidence linking him to terrorism. Idris had been detained for two years following his arrest in June 2024 by another security agency in Suleja, Niger State, over alleged ties to Boko Haram. He was transferred to DSS custody shortly after his arrest.

The DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, ordered Idris's immediate release and approved a compensation package of 3 million naira to assist with his immediate reintegration. Ajayi also pledged to support Idris in rebuilding his business. Upon receiving the compensation, Idris expressed gratitude for the gesture, stating the funds would help him restart his life. His father, Yusuf Idris, also thanked the DSS leadership and assured the money would be put to good use.

Idris's release is part of an internal review exercise initiated by the DSS last year to reassess inherited and prolonged detention cases. The service stated the initiative aims to ensure individuals wrongfully detained are not held unjustly and reflects a commitment to balancing national security with respect for citizens' rights.