ABUJA, Nigeria – The Department of State Services (DSS) has said it is pursuing tougher prison terms for convicted terrorism suspects while employing 27 qualified orphans in a move it described as part of its wider security and social intervention efforts.
Okay News reports that the Service will appeal the sentences handed to three terrorism convicts, arguing that the prison terms imposed do not reflect the seriousness of their offences.
The convicts, who were arrested with weapons and ammunition allegedly intended for bandit and terrorist networks, received prison sentences ranging from 10 to 32 years. The DSS said it was seeking stiffer punishment to strengthen deterrence against terrorism and illegal arms trafficking.
The Service also disclosed that it had recruited 27 qualified orphans from different parts of Nigeria under the leadership of Director-General Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi.
Orphanages and child welfare organisations praised the recruitment exercise, describing it as a transformative intervention that offers vulnerable youths renewed hope, dignity and the opportunity to build careers.
The organisations urged other institutions to adopt similar initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for qualified young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
