By Fawaz Adebisi
The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced the commencement of detailed investigations into the unfortunate incident that occurred at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on 25th July, 2023.
Recall that Blackbox earlier reported a fight involving the DSS operatives and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), over possession of the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele.
This was after the court granted Emefiele bail of N20m and one surety in like sum, but be remanded in a correctional center until fulfillment.
However, in a press statement released by the DSS Public Relations Officer, Dr. Peter Afunanya, through its Twitter handle on Wednesday, the Service expressed deep regret over the incident.
It further said that the incident does not represent the professional disposition of the DSS.
The statement read, “the incident was unfortunate and does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the DSS. The Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference.
“The Service has tremendous respect for the Judiciary as an Arm and Institution of Government and will not go out of its way to undermine it.
“The DSS recognises the Judiciary as a critical component in nation building, national development, and security management. Also, the Service has a robust working relationship with sister Security and Law Enforcement agencies including the NCoS.”
The statement acknowledged that there was undue overzealousness displayed by personnel from both agencies during the incident.
As a result, the DSS has taken swift action to investigate the matter further, aiming to identify specific individuals involved and undertake disciplinary actions if necessary, adding that the goal is to learn from the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The statement also clarified that the DSS had not violated any laws in handling the Emefiele Case, countering attempts by certain elements to discredit its leadership.
It stressed that the DSS remains committed to its national security mandate, maintaining ethical standards, and a high sense of discipline.
Dr. Afunanya further emphasized the need for well-meaning Nigerians to support the DSS in achieving the nation’s desired security goals. He called for unity, love, and tolerance among the citizens to work together towards building a stronger and safer Nigeria.
He therefore urged all Nigerians to remember that they have no other country but Nigeria, and to join hands in nation-building.
