A Department of State Services (DSS) investigator has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that terrorist leader Shugaba offered Tukur Mamu a N50 million personal share from ransom payments linked to the 2022 Abuja–Kaduna train attack.
Testifying behind a security screen, the officer (PW-6) said four extracted voice notes revealed Mamu’s direct communication with the terrorists. In one audio, Shugaba praised Mamu’s efforts and instructed him to deduct N50 million for himself from a tranche of ransom. Another terrorist, Baba Adamu, requested that Mamu help them purchase speakers and a public-address system, and also teach them how to create websites for their activities.
The DSS investigator said the recordings were retrieved from Mamu’s phones and tablet after his arrest in Egypt and subsequent return to Nigeria. He added that Mamu had called his in-law, Mubarak Tinja, from Egypt, directing him to move cash, vehicles, and other valuables from his home to prevent seizure.
A search of Mamu’s house and office uncovered about $300,000, several cars—including a Toyota Camry (Muscle), Peugeot 5008, Lexus, Mercedes E350, and Hyundai—and other valuables. The court admitted related documents into evidence.
Mamu reportedly admitted during interrogation that he instructed Mubarak to move his belongings and confirmed communicating with the terrorists. He also acknowledged owning a pump-action gun, though investigators found its licence had expired in December 2021.
Two kidnap victims earlier provided written statements describing their experiences but declined to testify in court due to fear and trauma. Their statements were admitted as exhibits.
Prosecutors also tendered eight statements made by Mamu, along with video recordings of his interview sessions, and the court admitted them into evidence. The trial continues.
