The Digest:
The Department of State Services has arraigned Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki, the alleged mastermind behind the 2012 gun attack on a Deeper Life Bible Church in Kogi State, where 19 worshippers were killed. Obadaki, a suspected Ansaru terrorist leader, was recaptured in November 2025 after escaping during the July 2022 Kuje prison break, and now faces charges including terrorism and escape from lawful custody.
Key Points:
- Obadaki pleaded guilty only to the charge of escaping from lawful custody
- He is accused of leading the 2012 Otite church attack that killed 19 during a Bible study
- The suspect also allegedly led a 2022 bank robbery gang in Edo State, resulting in multiple deaths
- He was initially arrested and remanded at Kuje Prison before the 2022 jailbreak
- DSS announced his recapture on November 15, 2025
- He was arraigned on a six-count charge including terrorism, conspiracy, and aiding attacks
- Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case to January 26, 2026
- Obadaki remains in DSS custody pending the next hearing
Sources: Daily Trust, Vanguard
