The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned five suspected members of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (Ansaru) terrorist group before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the May 15 mass abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
The defendants — Mahmud Muhammad (Abu Bara’a), Abubakar Abbas (Isah Adam), Abdulrazak Umar (Abu Khalifa), Yunusa Musa (Abu Yunusa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (Abu Itisar) — were charged on a six-count indictment bordering on terrorism, conspiracy, aiding terrorism, and murder.
Appearing before Justice Salim Ibrahim in charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026, all five defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Chilling details of the terrorism charge
According to court filings, the Federal Government alleged that key leaders of the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group instructed foot soldiers to execute captives in the event of their arrest to force government concessions.
“That you… sometime between 2025 and 2026… did order your foot soldiers of ANSARU terrorist group… that in the event of your arrest by the government, to kidnap and kill victims in different parts of the country to compel the government to accede to your demands,” part of the charge read.
The prosecution further alleged that the Ansaru commanders caused the death of two victims — Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye — by decapitating them during their nearly two-month captivity.
The tragic incident stems from the May 15 attack in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where heavily armed men invaded Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, seizing roughly 46 pupils and educators. While security forces eventually rescued most victims, two lost their lives.
Following their pleas, prosecution counsel Dr. Caliatus Eze requested that the defendants remain in protective custody.
Justice Ibrahim granted the application, ordering their remand in DSS custody while ensuring access to legal counsel, family members, and medical care. The trial was adjourned to September 25.
UI community donates ₦6m to support rescued victims and bereaved families
In a parallel development demonstrating community resilience, serving and retired academics from the University of Ibadan (UI) donated ₦6 million on Wednesday to support the rescued schoolchildren, teachers, and grieving families.
The delegation, led by Prof. Ezekiel Ayoola at the Office of the Inspector-General of Education in Ogbomoso, presented funds raised through voluntary contributions from prominent academics, including former UI Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale and Bowen University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jonathan Babalola.
“Our gathering today is both sombre and celebratory. It reminds us of the insecurity confronting our nation, but it also celebrates the triumph of humanity over terror,” Prof. Ayoola stated, emphasising the need for ongoing psychological and financial support for victims.
Inspector-General of Education for the Ogbomoso Zone, Mr. Olubunmi Adisa, praised the academic community for bridging “town and gown” through active humanitarian leadership during national hardship.
Read Also: Oyo Principal reveals bandits executed Deacon Olaleye after Oyedokun in captivity
