DSS Frees Cleared Artisan with N3m Compensation After Oyo School Kidnapping Probe

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Mustapha Marwana, a Katsina-born carpenter who was detained in connection with the May 15 abduction and killing of pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State.

DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi ordered Marwana’s immediate release after an internal investigative panel cleared him of all allegations. The panel concluded that the artisan had no operational ties, membership, or logistical connections to Ansaru, the terrorist group responsible for the school attack.

Following his discharge from custody, Marwana was handed over to his legal counsel, Oghene Forgive. The DSS leadership also approved an initial N3 million financial compensation package to support Marwana’s reintegration and assist him in rebuilding his livelihood.

The May 15 attack on three schools in Oriire involved the abduction of 39 pupils and seven teachers. While two victims were killed during the ordeal, the remaining captives were rescued on July 10 during a military operation. Security agencies have since prosecuted multiple suspects linked to the incident, with three individuals already sentenced to life imprisonment at the Federal High Court in Abuja.