….Marwana spent time in custody over alleged connection to Ansaru before investigation exonerated him
The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a Katsina-born carpenter, Mustapha Marwana, after an investigation found no evidence linking him to terrorist activities.
Marwana was arrested during investigations into the abduction and killing of school pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, amid allegations of possible links to the Ansaru terrorist group.
However, following a detailed investigation, the DSS panel reportedly established that the carpenter had no connection with the group’s membership, financing, logistics or operational activities.
The development prompted the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, to order Marwana’s immediate release and approve an initial compensation of ₦3 million to assist him in rebuilding his livelihood after his ordeal.
Marwana was subsequently released into the custody of his lawyer, Oghene Forgive.
Speaking after his release, the carpenter expressed appreciation to the DSS leadership for what he described as a humane intervention, particularly the decision to release him after investigators found no evidence to substantiate the allegations against him.
The DSS said the compensation was part of its broader efforts to support individuals who are cleared after investigations, particularly those affected by mistaken identity or allegations that could not be substantiated.
The Service stressed that its approach was aimed not only at ensuring national security but also at protecting public confidence in the intelligence and investigative process.
According to the DSS, more than ₦300 million has been paid under the current leadership to individuals who were either cleared of allegations or affected by mistaken identity.
The release of Marwana and the accompanying compensation therefore represent a significant human-interest dimension to the DSS’s counter-terrorism operations, highlighting the importance of balancing national security with fairness and the rights of individuals caught up in complex investigations.
For Marwana, the development brings an end to a difficult chapter and provides financial support as he returns to his trade and attempts to rebuild his livelihood.
The DSS said it would continue to strengthen its investigative procedures while ensuring that persons found not to be involved in criminal or terrorist activities are appropriately cleared and supported.
Source:@NTANewsNew
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