Ensure professionalism during elections, DSS DG tells officers

Yusuf Bichi, director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS), says officers of the agency must ensure that they are neutral and professional during the general election.

Bichi said this in Abuja at the completion of a four-day strategic workshop for state directors and heads of institutions of the agency.

In a statement on Monday, Peter Afunanya, the DSS spokesperson, said the training was held from January 18 to 21 and was “part of the agency’s preparedness” for the elections.

“The DGSS, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, used the occasions to reiterate the need for professionalism and neutrality of personnel in the discharge of the service’s mandate before, during and after the general elections.” the statement reads.

“Of note was that at the end of the strategic workshop, participants pledged to work in collaboration with sister agencies, INEC and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that peaceful elections are conducted across the country.

“The service reviewed the security situation in the country and assured INEC of its support which is in line with the president’s pronouncement to the world to bequeath a free and fair election.” 

Afunanya also said Mahmood Yakubu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said the agency is committed to the delivery of free and credible elections.

“Also, the commission, through its director of legal, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, educated participants on the electoral act 2022 and its implications for security agencies,” the DSS spokesperson added.