The Department of State Services (DSS) has taken into custody a retired officer, Nwaogu Ihechimere Ezeakolam, due to his alleged involvement with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a group classified as a terrorist organization. Currently held by the agency, Ezeakolam faces a four-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Legal proceedings are scheduled to commence before Justice Mohammed Garba Umar. The charges were formally filed by Mr. Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo, SAN, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation. The accusations stem from activities occurring between 2025 and 2026 across Abuja and Abia State.
Prosecutors allege that Ezeakolam provided material and moral support to IPOB, violating Section 13 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Additional charges include voluntary membership in a banned organization and the use of social media to influence public support for the group. These actions are cited as breaches of Sections 25 and 26 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Furthermore, he faces charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, for utilizing online platforms to promote IPOB’s objectives. He is expected to enter a plea on August 6.
