Abdullahi Mustapha Berende, an Ilorin-based Islamic scholar and preacher who was arrested over alleged links with terrorist groups, Al-Qaeda has regained freedom after nine years in detention.
Berende was arrested in 2012 by the secret police after being accused of terrorism and espionage.
Daily Trust reported that he arrived Ilorin over the weekend in the company of few family members.
Family members, friends, and associates reportedly held thanksgiving to celebrate his release after a special prayer was conducted for him at his family house at Idi-Ape, Ilorin East Local Government Area of the state.
It was learnt that the DSS had initially refused to release him despite several court orders, and repeatedly accused him of spying for the government of Republic of Iran.
Although he denied the charges and was granted bail by the Federal High court, Ilorin, the DSS re-arraigned him in another court in Abuja.
