A Federal High Court in Dutse, Jigawa State, has ordered the immediate unconditional release of 16-year-old Walida Abdulhadi and directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to hand over one of its operatives, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, to the Jigawa State Police Command for investigation. The ruling, delivered by Justice Hassan Dikko on Tuesday, comes after allegations that the teenager was abducted and sexually abused by the DSS operative in 2023. Reports indicate that Abdulhadi became pregnant during her captivity and has since given birth to a baby girl. The case, which has sparked public outrage and drawn national attention, was adjourned on March 26 following presentations by both prosecution and defence.
Justice Dikko condemned the DSS for allegedly shielding Onyewuenyi, describing the agency’s actions as “condemnable” and a failure to uphold justice. He emphasized that the DSS lacks legal authority to conduct internal investigations into criminal allegations involving its officers, especially in cases of sexual abuse. The judge nullified any internal probe the DSS had initiated, stating that only the police and the judiciary have jurisdiction over such criminal matters. He stressed that the DSS’s attempt to protect its operative undermines public trust and violates due process.
The court’s decision reaffirms an earlier order from a Magistrate Court in Hadejia, which had also directed the DSS to release the teenager to her parents and transfer the suspect to the police. The DSS had challenged that order in the Federal High Court, seeking to delay its enforcement. However, Justice Dikko’s ruling on Tuesday confirmed and strengthened the earlier directive, ensuring that the victim’s rights are protected under the law.
Counsel to the victim’s family, Kabiru Adamu, welcomed the judgment as a significant victory for justice and the rule of law. He said the ruling proves that the courts remain the last hope for ordinary citizens seeking redress. Adamu urged the Jigawa State Police Command to act swiftly and transparently once the suspect is handed over, emphasizing the need for a thorough and timely investigation. He also called for accountability and justice to be served without further delay.
This case highlights serious concerns about the conduct of security agencies and their accountability to the public. The outcome sets a precedent for how similar cases should be handled in the future, reinforcing the principle that no one is above the law. As the investigation proceeds, the public will be watching closely for transparency and justice to prevail.
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