National News – A Federal High Court in Dutse, Jigawa State, has ordered the Department of State Services to immediately release 16-year-old Walida Abdulhadi and hand over one of its operatives, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, to the police for investigation.

The ruling, delivered Tuesday by Justice Hassan Dikko, follows allegations that the teenager was abducted and sexually abused by the officer in 2023, leading to the birth of a child while she remained in custody.

The court heard arguments from both prosecution and defence before reaching its decision, which not only mandated the girl’s unconditional release but also nullified any internal investigation conducted by the DSS.

Justice Dikko ruled that the agency lacks the legal authority to probe its own officer in a criminal matter of this nature, stressing that such responsibility lies with the police and the courts.

The case, which originated from Hadejia Local Government Area, has drawn widespread attention across Jigawa and beyond.

It raises critical questions about institutional accountability, especially when security agencies are accused of shielding their personnel from scrutiny.

Reacting to the judgment, the family’s lawyer described it as a reaffirmation of judicial independence and the rule of law.

Locally, residents and civil society voices have expressed cautious optimism, noting that while the ruling is a step forward, its real impact depends on whether law enforcement conducts a transparent and timely investigation.

The DSS had earlier challenged a magistrate court order directing the same actions, escalating the matter to the Federal High Court.

That move, now overturned, highlights tensions between security agencies and judicial oversight.

Beyond the immediate case, the ruling could set a precedent for how allegations against security operatives are handled nationwide.

It underscores a broader demand for accountability within Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly in cases involving vulnerable victims.