The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced the arrest of the mastermind of the explosion near the Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland in Okene, Kogi State on 29 December 2022.
The Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) exploded before the arrival of President Muhammadu Buhari on an official visit to the state.
Announcing the arrest in a statement on Wednesday, DSS Public Relations Officer, Peter Afunanya, listed the suspects as Abdulmumin Ibrahim Otaru (aka Abu Mikdad) and his associates, Saidu Suleiman.
He said the arrest was effected on 3 January and added that Otaru sustained a gunshot injury on his left foot while attempting to escape. He is currently receiving treatment at a health facility.
The DSS further announced that Otaru operated terrorist cells in and around Kogi State and that his gang had carried out kidnappings in Kogi and Ondo States.
The suspects are in custody and will be prosecuted soon.
The DSS is, therefore, appealing for information and cooperation from Nigerians to help achieve a peaceful country.
