Nigeria News Today: DSS Arraigns Suspected Mastermind of 2012 Deeper Life Church Massacre in Kogi
By Queen Madaki | The Bureau News
Nigeria News Today — Justice & Security
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned Abdulmalik Abdulazeez Obadaki, the suspected mastermind of the 2012 deadly gun attack on the Deeper Life Bible Church, Otite, near Okene in Kogi State.
The brutal attack, carried out on August 7, 2012, left more than 19 worshippers dead and several others injured after armed men stormed the church during a Bible study session and opened fire with AK-47 rifles. The incident was widely believed to have been coordinated by the Ansaru terrorist group.
Following the church massacre, Obadaki was also linked to the violent Uromi bank robberies in Edo State, where armed gang members reportedly killed several persons and carted away large sums of money.
He was subsequently arrested by security forces and detained at the Kuje Correctional Centre, but escaped during the July 2022 prison jailbreak.
The DSS, however, announced on November 15, 2025, that it had successfully recaptured the fugitive.
DSS Arraigns Obadaki on Terrorism Charges
Six days after his recapture, the secret police arraigned Obadaki before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on a six-count charge bordering on:
- Terrorism
- Conspiracy
- Aiding terror attacks
- Concealment of information
- Participation in criminal activities
- Escape from lawful custody
During his court appearance, Obadaki pleaded guilty only to the sixth count relating to escape from lawful custody, while denying involvement in the other terrorism-related allegations.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to January 26, 2026, ordering that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the next court sitting.
Context and Security Perspective | Nigeria News Today
The Bureau News notes that the Okene church massacre remains one of the most painful religious attacks recorded in Nigeria. Security analysts say the trial will be closely monitored as Nigerians demand justice for victims and sustained accountability for terrorism crimes.
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The Bureau News will continue to follow court updates and provide verified Nigeria News Today coverage.
