2010-10-08 5:26:00 PM
The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa says the focus of investigations into last Friday's Abuja bombings has shifted to Nigeria. Local police have also confirmed that they are not investigating any further suspects. Nigerian national Henry Okah, who holds a residence permit, was arrested in South Africa and is currently in custody.
Okah is said to be the mastermind of the attack which claimed 12 lives. Nigeria's secret service has arrested nine people in connection with the attack. A group named MEND has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Okah has denied being a member of the group or that he organised the attack. But he has been linked to gun running in Angola, illegal possession of arms and trafficking. Okah's arrest has raised questions about whether the group was operating a cell in South Africa.
Terrorism expert, Anneli Botha, says it is more interesting to ask the questions within Nigeria rather than to question the link between South Africa and Nigeria. She says whether there is a main cell in South Africa, it is more a question of an individual link rather than an organisational link, but the possibility is always there.
Political analysts doubt Okah's arrest will affect relations between Nigeria and South Africa. Political analyst, Dr Shadrack Gutto, says South Africa has done the right thing because if they had not arrested Okah, Nigeria would have accused South Africa of complicity by allowing him to leave the country because he is now a resident of South Africa.
The National Prosecuting Authority says Okah will stand trial in South Africa. The Nigerian High Commission says no decision to extradite him has been taken yet. He is due in court next week.
SABC
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