The Federal Government has arraigned three men before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The defendants, identified as Abdulrazak Umar, also known as Abu Khalifa or Abu Khalid; Yunusa Musa, also known as Yunusa bin Musa; and Shamsu Adamu Sani, also known as Abu Itisar, are facing a 10-count charge bordering on terrorism, kidnapping, concealment of information, incitement, and illegal mining.
According to the charge, the suspects, all from Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State, allegedly conspired with three others identified as Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab between January and May 2026 to abduct schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
The Federal Government accused them of offences contrary to Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Kidnapping and Concealment Allegations
Prosecutors also alleged that the three men assisted in carrying out the abduction and failed to disclose information about the identities and activities of the alleged masterminds, despite having prior knowledge of the plot.
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The charges state that their actions contravened Sections 26(2) and 16(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
The government further alleged that on June 2, 2026, the trio declared themselves members of Darul Salam, said to be affiliated with Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan (Ansaru), a terrorist organisation banned in Nigeria.
Additional Charges Against Umar
The first defendant, Abdulrazak Umar, faces additional charges of allegedly providing training and instructions to terrorists through a WhatsApp group known as “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace.”
He is also accused of using the platform to incite members to carry out terrorist acts, contrary to the provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.
In a separate count, Umar was accused of engaging in illegal gold mining in streams located in the Chaza area of Suleja Local Government Area between 2024 and 2026, without lawful authority.
Court Appearance Expected
According to a security source familiar with the case, the suspects are expected to appear before the Federal High Court next week following the conclusion of investigations.
The source added that investigations are continuing and that other suspects remain under investigation.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.