Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the plea of Mohammed Tukur Mamu, an alleged terrorist negotiator, to be transferred from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to the Kuje Correctional Centre.

In his ruling on Monday, Justice Ekwo cited concerns raised by the Federal Government about frequent prison breaks as a key reason for opposing Mamu’s transfer to Kuje.

The judge noted that Mamu failed to contest the government’s assertions as required by law, effectively accepting them as facts.

Consequently, Justice Ekwo ordered that Mamu remain in DSS custody for the duration of his trial on criminal charges. However, the judge upheld his previous directive allowing Mamu access to medical treatment under DSS supervision.

Mamu’s legal team had alleged non-compliance with a court order issued on December 19, 2023, granting him access to medical care.

Mamu claimed he had only been examined by a physician once, with subsequent medical attention withheld despite deteriorating health and the need for urgent surgical procedures.

Asserting that his continued detention in DSS custody posed a risk to his life, Mamu emphasized his willingness to attend court proceedings, underscoring the necessity of preserving his health to stand trial.

Mamu was apprehended at Aminu Kano International Airport on September 6, 2022, upon returning from Egypt, purportedly linked to the terrorists responsible for the March 28, 2022 attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train.

Initially arraigned by the DSS on March 21, 2023, on ten counts related to terrorism financing, Mamu pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The court’s decision maintains his confinement under DSS supervision as legal proceedings against him continue.