The State Security Service (SSS) on Monday arraigned four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) before the Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of one of its operatives, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
The defendants Michael Okafor, also known as Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, also known as Ability — were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a six-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism and kidnapping.
All four defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly conspired to commit acts of terrorism and participated in the abduction of Owoh while the SSS operative was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.
The prosecution further alleged that Owoh was taken hostage and subsequently killed during the alleged operation.
The four defendants were also accused of being members of the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and of participating in activities allegedly connected with terrorism.
Another aspect of the charge relates to the alleged unlawful possession of firearms.
The prosecution accused the defendants of possessing weapons including AK-47 and pump-action rifles in connection with the alleged offences.
The charges followed investigations into the disappearance, alleged abduction and killing of Owoh and the activities attributed to the defendants.
Separate reports citing security sources said Owoh disappeared on February 23, 2022, along Orlu Road in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, while travelling to Awka in a silver-coloured Pontiac Vibe.
When proceedings commenced on Monday, prosecution counsel Munirat Oladunjoye asked the court to set the matter down for trial.
She informed Justice Abdulmalik that the prosecution had three witnesses it intended to call to establish its case against the defendants.
Counsel representing the defendants, Kelvin Ekwe, did not oppose the prosecution’s request for the matter to proceed to trial.
Following the defendants’ pleas and submissions by counsel, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to October 6, 2026, for commencement of trial.
The judge also ordered that the four defendants be remanded in SSS custody pending further proceedings.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
