DIA To Detain ASP Babangida And 19 Others For 30 Days Over Terrorism Charges

DIA To Detain ASP Babangida And 19 Others For 30 Days Over Terrorism Charges

Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has approved a 30-day detention order for an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and 19 other suspects involved in terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping activities. The detainees include ASP A. A Babangida, who is accused of aiding Boko Haram, bandits, and ISWAP members.

The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) had requested a 90-day detention to conduct a thorough investigation, citing the complexity of the suspects’ involvement in terrorism. The application, supported by a 21-paragraph affidavit, detailed how the suspects were apprehended across various locations.

Justice Lifu granted the 30-day detention but denied the full 90 days requested. The judge emphasized the need for a prompt investigation to adhere to legal standards, given that the suspects had already been in custody for three months.

The other detainees include Usman Idris, Abu Safiyanu, Alhassan Idris, Sahada Ishaka, Abubakar Ibrahim Sani Bello, Yahaya Abdullahi, Haruna Salisu, Mohammed Muazu, Nura Idris, Alhaji Manu Mohammed, Umar Mohammed Lamu, Abubakar Mandara, Suleiman Musa Mohammed, Alhaji Madayi, Alhaji Amodu Bukar, Prince Oghewe, and Uzoma Aghaoyibo.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1146/2024, will proceed as the DIA continues its investigation.