A Federal High Court in Dutse, Jigawa State, has ordered the Department of State Services to immediately release a 16-year-old girl, Walida Abdulhadi, over alleged unlawful detention.
Delivering judgment, Justice Hassan Dikko directed that the teenager be released unconditionally.
The court also ordered the DSS to produce one of its operatives, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, and hand him over to the Jigawa State Police Command for investigation.
The case stems from serious allegations that the DSS operative abducted and sexually abused the teenager in 2023.
Reports indicate that Abdulhadi became pregnant while in custody and has since given birth.
Justice Dikko strongly criticised the DSS for allegedly shielding its officer.
He described the agency’s conduct as “condemnable”, especially in a case involving grave criminal allegations.
The court also nullified any internal investigation by the DSS, stating that the agency lacks the legal authority to probe such criminal matters involving its personnel.
According to the ruling, only the police and the courts have jurisdiction over criminal investigations of this nature.
Counsel to the victim’s family, Kabiru Adamu, welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for justice and due process.
He urged authorities to ensure a transparent and speedy investigation once the suspect is handed over.
The ruling reinforces an earlier directive by a Magistrate Court in Hadejia, which had also ordered the release of the teenager and transfer of the suspect to police authorities.
The case has generated widespread concern, highlighting issues of accountability within security agencies and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
