A Federal High Court in Abuja has heard that several victims rescued after the 2022 Abuja–Kaduna train attack submitted written petitions to the Department of State Services (DSS) against alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu. The disclosure was made by a DSS operative who appeared as the sixth prosecution witness in Mamu’s ongoing terrorism trial before Justice Mohammed Umar.

During cross-examination, the witness confirmed that the complaints were formally submitted in writing by some rescued victims. He also revealed that six victims were interviewed during the investigation, but none of the interviews was conducted in the presence of the defendant. The witness testified behind a screen, following the court’s earlier decision to protect witnesses and victims involved in the case.

The DSS operative further told the court that he interviewed several high-profile individuals, including General Abdulkadir Abubakar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and General Jalingo, but none of the interviews was carried out with Mamu present. He admitted that Mamu had requested a joint interrogation with members of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Committee, but said the request was not approved by the DSS.

At the end of the cross-examination, the prosecution announced plans to close its case, while the defence opted not to file a no-case submission. Justice Mohammed Umar adjourned the matter until April 23, when Tukur Mamu is expected to open his defence, as the trial continues amid tight security and public interest.