DSS Alleges Tukur Mamu Received ₦50 Million from Terrorists

A Department of State Services (DSS) witness has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that media publisher Tukur Mamu was allegedly paid ₦50 million by a terrorist leader, identified as “Shugaba,” as his personal share from ransom money following the 2022 Abuja–Kaduna train attack.

The testimony came from the 6th prosecution witness, who said audio recordings retrieved from Mamu’s electronic devices after his arrest abroad in Egypt capture conversations between Mamu and the terrorist group. In one such recording, the DSS witness claimed, Shugaba instructed Mamu to “remove ₦50 million for his personal use” from ransom funds paid for the release of abducted passengers.

The witness further alleged that the terrorists requested Mamu’s assistance in creating a website and procuring public-address equipment, which they intended to use for their operations and propaganda.

Mamu has denied all wrongdoing, rejecting claims that he acted as a “terrorist negotiator.” His legal team is challenging the admissibility of the voice recordings and other evidence, citing procedural and constitutional concerns. Mamu has also filed a fundamental rights suit, questioning his designation as a “terrorist” while the trial is ongoing