The State Security Service (SSS) on Monday arraigned four suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of its officer, Ekpenyong Asuquo Owoh.
The defendants were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of a Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge of terrorism and kidnapping.
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The defendants are Michael Okafor, alias Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa, and Chigozie Olisa, alias Ability.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the prosecution alleged that the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the abduction of Mr Owoh, an SSS officer, while he was travelling from Port Harcourt in Rivers State to Awka in Anambra State.
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The defendants were further accused of taking the operative hostage and causing his death during the alleged criminal operation.
They were also accused of belonging to the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, as well as involvement in activities allegedly linked to terrorism.
In addition, the prosecution alleged that the suspects were involved in the unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offences.
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The charges followed investigations into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of the officer and the alleged activities of the defendants.
The defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read.
Munirat Oladunjoye, who appeared for the SSS, sought a trial. Kelvin Ekwe, who appeared for the defendants, did not oppose the application.
Ms Oladunjoye informed the court that the prosecution had three witnesses who would give evidence during trial.
Justice Abdulmalik consequently adjourned the matter until 6 October for commencement of trial and ordered that the four accused persons be remanded in SSS custody.
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