Court orders DSS to free Jigawa teen and surrender officer
A Federal High Court in Dutse has instructed the Department of State Services to release Walida Abdulhadi, a teenager from Jigawa State, and to hand over its operative, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, to the police for investigation. Abdulhadi was allegedly abducted and abused by Onyewuenyi, leading to public outcry. The court criticized the DSS for shielding its officer and stated that only the police and courts have the authority to handle such criminal cases. Kabiru Adamu, the family’s lawyer, praised the ruling for upholding justice.
What we know
- The court ordered the DSS to release Walida Abdulhadi unconditionally and surrender Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi to the police.
- Abdulhadi was reportedly abducted and abused by Onyewuenyi in 2023 and has since given birth.
- Justice Hassan Dikko condemned the DSS for protecting its officer and set aside any internal investigation by the agency.
- The court emphasized that only the police and judiciary have the legal power to investigate and try such criminal matters.
- Kabiru Adamu welcomed the decision, stating it restores hope in the judiciary and calls for a transparent police investigation.
