A Federal High Court in Abuja has arraigned Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama on charges bordering on alleged terrorism financing, including claims that he raised and channelled funds to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, commonly known as Boko Haram.
Kaigama was brought before the court by the Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to the four-count charge filed against him. The charges accuse him of concealing information about terrorist activities, raising funds under false pretences, providing material support to terrorist organisations, and handling funds allegedly linked to terrorism.
According to the charge, the defendant allegedly collected money from unsuspecting members of the public between January and June 2026 while claiming the funds were meant to secure the release of kidnap victims. Prosecutors alleged that the money was instead intended to finance the activities of ISWAP and Boko Haram.
The DSS further accused Kaigama of knowingly providing financial services and other forms of material support to the two proscribed terrorist groups. He is also alleged to have concealed information that could have assisted security agencies in preventing acts of terrorism or apprehending those involved.
Following the defendant’s plea, prosecuting counsel, Dr. Caliatus Eze, urged the court to remand him in the protective custody of the DSS, arguing that doing so was necessary in the interest of national security and for the defendant’s own safety pending trial.
Justice Salim Ibrahim granted the prosecution’s request and ordered that Kaigama remain in the custody of the DSS. The court, however, directed that the defendant be given unrestricted access to his legal counsel as well as visits from his wife and uncle. The judge also ordered that he receive adequate medical care while in custody.
The charges were filed under various provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, including allegations of concealing information about terrorism, financing terrorist organisations, providing material support, and dealing in terrorist funds.
Justice Ibrahim adjourned the matter until September 24, 2026, for the commencement of trial. The allegations remain before the court, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
