The Department of State Services (DSS) has refused to allow the family of a Kogi-based school owner—held in its custody without trial since late 2022—to visit him, sparking serious concerns over prolonged detention and lack of due process.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly denied access to the family of Momoh Abubakar Otuhuo, a school proprietor detained since 2022 without trial. Momoh, a laboratory technician and founder of Jamaatul Muslimeen Academy in Eika, Okehi LGA, Kogi State, was arrested along with Idris Abdulmalik, a trainee nurse, and two secondary school students — Aliyu Yusuf and Ishaq Awwal.
Sources claim Momoh was detained due to a personal rift with the former Okehi Local Government Chairman, Ohiare. Despite being held for over two years, no formal charges have been brought against him or the others.
A family member told Sahara Reporters that DSS officials at their Abuja headquarters forcefully ejected Momoh’s relatives, including his elderly mother, when they attempted to demand his release.
“We came from Kogi to seek justice, but they pushed us out. Some DSS officials admitted privately that Momoh is innocent but fear public backlash if the case goes to court,” the source said.
Momoh, who is married with children, was the family’s sole breadwinner. Since his arrest, his household has reportedly suffered financial and emotional hardship. Community members, including a local mosque committee, raised funds for the family’s trip to Abuja in pursuit of justice.
Despite repeated efforts, including petitions and media coverage, the DSS has not produced any formal accusations or allowed legal access.
Momoh’s brother recounted that both Momoh and Idris were arrested in the early hours of August 1, 2022, and their whereabouts were initially unknown. It wasn’t until nine days later that the Chief of Defence Staff linked them to the June 5, 2022 Owo Catholic Church attack — an accusation the family strongly denies.
“They were never questioned about the attack. It’s all politically motivated. The former council chairman framed my brother due to past disagreements. Even he once admitted Momoh taught him in secondary school,” Momoh’s brother said.
In August 2022, the Eika Solidarity Forum submitted a petition to the National Human Rights Commission, accusing the DSS and military of illegal detention and rights violations. The group emphasized Momoh’s reputation as a respected educator and community leader, calling the allegations baseless.
The family is demanding his immediate and unconditional release, saying the DSS is misleading the public by claiming to uphold human rights while continuing to hold innocent citizens without trial.
READ ALSO: “I cried for days when I saw I came second best-graduating student,” – Ifesinachi Okafor
SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SAHARA REPORTERS
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