Four years after DSS operative Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh disappeared on a major Anambra road, four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have been arraigned over his alleged abduction and killing.
The four suspects were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Department of State Services (DSS) on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and kidnapping.
They are Michael Okafor, aka Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, aka Ability.
The case centres on the disappearance of Owoh, who reportedly went missing on February 23, 2022, while travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, towards Awka, Anambra State.
According to security sources, the DSS operative was travelling in a silver-coloured Pontiac Vibe when he disappeared along the Orlu Road in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
His disappearance subsequently became the subject of investigations by security authorities, with the DSS now alleging that the four suspects were involved in what happened to him.
The prosecution told the court that the defendants allegedly conspired to commit acts of terrorism and participated in the abduction of Owoh.
They were further accused of taking the operative hostage and causing his death during the alleged operation.
The DSS also accused the suspects of belonging to IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and participating in activities allegedly linked to terrorism.
Another aspect of the case involves allegations of illegal possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles.
However, when the six-count charge was read to them in court, the four defendants pleaded not guilty.
DSS counsel, Munirat Oladunjoye, informed the court that the prosecution had three witnesses lined up to testify against the defendants.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik subsequently fixed October 6, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the suspects be remanded in DSS custody.
The arraignment has brought renewed attention to the unresolved circumstances surrounding Owoh’s disappearance more than four years after he was last seen on the Anambra route.
The allegations against the four suspects have not been proved, and their trial is expected to determine their culpability.
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