DSS Arraigns Seven Alleged IPOB Commanders, Gives Fresh Update on Nationwide Terrorism Trials
The Department of State Services has arraigned seven suspected commanders of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, in a fresh push against violent separatist activities and other terrorism-related offences across the country.
The suspects, linked by investigators to the faction of Finland-based Simon Ekpa, were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on three separate charges filed on 19 November 2025.
The cases, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/632/2025, FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2025, and FHC/ABJ/CR/634/2025, outline allegations ranging from receiving funds to providing material support for armed operations carried out in parts of the South-East.
One of the key suspects, identified as Ibrahim Ali Larabo, an alleged illegal immigrant from Niger Republic, is accused of operating an unlicensed Bureau de Change used to channel funds for IPOB’s activities.
According to the DSS, Larabo and others acted as couriers, foot soldiers, arms facilitators and financial intermediaries for the Ekpa-coordinated network.
In its update, the DSS said the arraignment formed part of a broader effort to fast-track terrorism trials involving different extremist groups across the country.
The service confirmed that another suspect, Ismaila, also known as Mai Tangaran, linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), had recently been convicted and handed sentences of 15 and 20 years on separate counts.
The agency also hinted at progress in other high-profile cases, including the prosecution of individuals connected with the UN building bombing, the Owo Catholic Church attack, and other violent incidents that have shaped Nigeria’s security landscape in recent years.
More suspects in these cases are expected to be arraigned soon.
Security analysts say the latest move signals a more aggressive legal strategy by the Federal Government, with a focus not just on arrests but on financial disruption and judicial accountability for armed groups operating across regions.
The DSS maintained that it will continue to collaborate with other security and judicial institutions to ensure that all ongoing terrorism cases are concluded within the shortest possible time.
