Terrorism Case: Court Frees 50 Suspected IPOB Members

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, has acquitted and released over 50 individuals accused of belonging to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and facing terrorism-related charges.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, Justice Omotosho upheld the no-case submission filed by the defendants, concluding that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) failed to present credible evidence linking the accused to the alleged offences. Among the acquitted were four women.

EDITOR’S PICKS 

• Japa: Russia Opens Doors to Migrants Amid Workforce Shortage
• Crisis Erupts at Celestial Church of Christ in Lagos Over N5m Donation
• EFCC Alleges Nigerian Banks Are Channels for Money Laundering

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the case, initiated by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accused the individuals of assembling in Umunze Village, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, on December 12, 2023, purportedly to plan terrorist activities.

The police alleged they were intercepted inside a 911 truck carrying materials, including caps adorned with IPOB emblems, which the prosecution claimed were charmed to grant invisibility during illegal operations.

Justice Omotosho dismissed the three-count charge, citing the prosecution’s failure to substantiate its claims. The judge emphasized that no evidence was provided to prove the defendants’ involvement in terrorism or unlawful activities.

Court terrorism IPOB Members

The dismissed charges had been filed on February 9, 2024, accusing the defendants of actions aimed at intimidating residents of Anambra State, which the police argued violated Section 12 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

This verdict marks a significant legal development in cases involving IPOB members, with the court reiterating the necessity for evidence-based prosecution to uphold justice. The Inspector-General of Police is yet to respond to the judgment.

FURTHER READING

• Week 21 Pool Results For Saturday, Nov 23, 2024: Latest Updates
• Why I Didn’t Present my Certificate of Return to APC Chairman Ganduje – Aiyedatiwa
• Guardiola Pledges To Stay With Manchester City Even If Relegated

---

Advertise or Publish a Story on EkoHot Blog:

Kindly contact us at [email protected]. Breaking stories should be sent to the above email and substantiated with pictorial evidence.

Citizen journalists will receive a token as data incentive.

Call or Whatsapp: 0803 561 7233, 0703 414 5611