The Department of State Services (DSS), on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, said it had commenced investigation into the clash between its operatives and officials of the Ikoyi Correctional Cetre over the custody of the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele.
This was as it said that it has not broken any laws in handling the Emefiele Case despite efforts by some elements to skew the narratives to the contrary.
The Service also assured that it would ensure that it will not be used for clout and fame chasing or delusional heroism but, remain focused on its national security mandate thus, enjoined well-meaning Nigerians to support it in achieving the desired security goals for the nation.
The secret police in a statement titled: “DSS INVESTIGATES 25TH JULY, 2023, FEDERAL HIGH COURT, IKOYI, LAGOS INCIDENT”, described the incident as ‘unfortunate’, stressing that it did not in any way reflected the professional disposition of the DSS.
The DSS statement which was signed by its spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya, said that the Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference.
The Service specifically said that it has tremendous respect for the Judiciary as an Arm and Institution of Government and will not go out of its way to undermine it.
Afunanya also said that the DSS recognises the Judiciary as a critical component in nation building, national development and security management, adding that it also has robust working relationship with sister security and law enforcement agencies including the NCoS.
Afunany further said; “The public will recall that Mr Godwin Emefiele, suspended CBN Governor, was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on 25th July, 2023. The Service has noted the incident that took place between its staff and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and wish to state as follows:
“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;
“While noting that the personnel from both Agencies exhibited undue overzealousness, the Service has further initiated detailed investigations 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.
“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 high sense of discipline.
“It is imperative to note that we have no other country but Nigeria. We should join hands, with love and tolerance, to build it,” it said.
