DSS to probe face-off with prison officials during Emefiele’s arraignment

The Department of State Services (DSS) says it will carry out an investigation into the face-off between its officials and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) at the federal high court in Ikoyi, on July 25.

On Tuesday, Godwin Emefiele, suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was arraigned at the court in Ikoyi and was granted N20 million bail.

Emefiele is facing charges bordering on “illegal possession of firearms”.

Nicholas Oweibo, the judge, ruled that Emefiele be remanded at the correctional centre, pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions but DSS operatives insisted on taking him into their custody.

Consequently, a scuffle broke out between the NCoS personnel and the DSS officials at the court premises.

In a statement on Wednesday, Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson, described the incident as “unfortunate”, adding that “it does not reflect the professional disposition of the service”.

He said the DSS has respect for the judiciary and would 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,” Afunanya said.

“Also, the service has a robust working relationship with sister security and law enforcement agencies including the NCoS.”

Afunanya said the personnel of both agencies exhibited “undue overzealousness”, noting that the DSS has initiated an investigation into the matter.

“This is with a view to identifying the role played by specific persons as well as undertaking disciplinary actions if necessary and drawing some lessons going forward,” he said.

“For emphasis, the DSS has not broken any laws in handling the Emefiele case despite efforts by some elements to skew the narratives to the contrary.

“The service had since alerted the public of sinister plots to discredit its leadership. In pursuit of its assignments, it will strive to remain professional, maintain ethical standards and a high sense of discipline.

“The service will ensure that it will not be used for clout and fame chasing or delusional heroism. It will, however, remain focused on its national security mandate.”

He urged well-meaning Nigerians to support the service in achieving the desired security goals for the nation.