The Federal Government has brought a former Department of State Services officer, Nwaogu Ihechimere Ezeakolam, before the Federal High Court in Abuja. He faces charges related to his alleged involvement with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and terrorism offenses. The hearing, held in open court, was conducted under the direction of Justice Mohammed Garba Umar. He will oversee the case. The charges against Ezeakolam are outlined in a four-count indictment. It was filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo.
Four charges against the defendant
Ezeakolam is being charged with four specific counts. The first alleges that he offered both moral and physical support to IPOB, which is classified as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The second count accuses him of becoming a member of IPOB despite the group being officially banned by the government under Section 25 of the same Act. The third charge centers around his use of social media to post messages designed to encourage others to support IPOB. The fourth count deals with cyber-related violations, including disseminating content that promotes the banned group's agenda.
According to the prosecution's allegations, Ezeakolam allegedly engaged in these activities between 2025 and 2026. The specific accusations link his conduct to locations in both Abuja and Abia State. These actions involved the use of social media platforms. They distributed messages and material aimed at increasing public support for IPOB. The material also aimed to advance its political objectives. The prosecution asserts that such online engagement is a violation of both the terrorism prevention and cybercrime laws. These laws are currently in effect.
Court proceedings and next steps
When the charges were read to Ezeakolam, he responded with a formal not guilty plea. He pleaded not guilty to all four counts. The defense, represented by Godfirst Maduka, has requested more time to prepare for the upcoming trial. They also want to file a bail application. Meanwhile, the prosecution, represented by the DSS legal team under counsel Memunat Oladunjoye, has urged the court to schedule the trial promptly. Justice Umar has set October 29 as the trial commencement date. He has ordered that Ezeakolam remain in the Kuje Correctional Centre. This is until the court hears and determines his bail application. However, the defense is also permitted to submit the bail application. They can do so at any time during the proceedings.