The Nigerian Government has arraigned three men on terrorism-related charges over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following investigations by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The suspects — Abdulrazak Umar, Yunusa Musa and Shamsu Adamu Sani — appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a 10-count charge bordering on terrorism, kidnapping, concealment of information, incitement and illegal mining.
Terrorism, Kidnapping Allegations
According to court documents, the defendants allegedly conspired with three other suspects between January and May 2026 to kidnap schoolchildren and teachers in Orire LGA, in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Prosecutors also accused them of concealing information about the alleged masterminds despite having prior knowledge of the plot.
The Federal Government further alleged that the suspects were members of Darul Salam, described in the charge as an affiliate of the proscribed terrorist group Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan (Ansaru).
Additional Charges
One of the defendants, Abdulrazak Umar, was separately accused of using a WhatsApp group titled “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace” to provide instructions and encouragement for terrorist activities.
He is also facing an unlawful gold mining charge for allegedly engaging in illegal mining operations in the Chaza area of Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State between 2024 and 2026 without authorization.
Investigation Continues
The DSS said investigations into the case are ongoing, with other suspects linked to the alleged crimes still under probe as authorities pursue what they described as a comprehensive investigation.
