DSS Frees Farmer Cleared of Boko Haram Links, Pays ₦3 Million Compensation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a farmer, Nura Idris, after an investigation found no evidence linking him to the Boko Haram insurgent group.

According to reports, the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, ordered Idris’ release and approved a compensation payment of ₦3 million to help him rebuild his life and business.

Idris, a farmer and herder from Soba Local Government Area, was arrested in Suleja in 2024 over allegations of having links to terrorists before he was handed over to the DSS.

A review panel set up by the agency later found no evidence connecting him to terrorist activities, leading to an immediate order for his release.

Speaking after regaining his freedom, Idris commended the DSS leadership for the way he was treated while in detention. He said the ₦3 million compensation would help him restart his life and farming business.

Security sources also disclosed that the DSS is reviewing old detention cases involving individuals who have been held for long periods to ensure innocent people are not kept in custody unnecessarily.

According to the reports, more than 30 people whose cases have been reviewed have received over ₦300 million in compensation, as part of the agency’s efforts to protect citizens’ rights while maintaining national security.