We Did Not Arrest Onumah – DSS

BY AMOS DUNIA, ABUJA – The Department of State Services (DSS), on Monday said that Dr. Chido Onumah was never arrested by it but merely engaged him in interaction on his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Sunday, September 29, 2019.

The DSS in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Peter Afunanya stated that the interaction with Onumah was aimed at drawing his attention to his possible undermining of public order and national security. 

According to Afunanya; “It was discovered that Onumah wore a T-shirt with WE ARE ALL BIAFRANS inscription on it. With credible intelligence that he might be a subject of mob attack if allowed to go into town in same cloth, the Service invited him and drew his attention to the implications of his probable (un)intended action. 

“It was strongly believed that an attack on Onumah would have sparked ethno-religious reprisals with dire consequences for law and order and public safety in the country.

“He understood the issues and pledged not to engage in activities that may cause disaffection in Abuja and the country at large. He subsequently removed the cloth with the inciting symbols and inscriptions and agreed not to use it. 

“The interaction between Onumah and the Service held in a convivial atmosphere. He appreciated the courtesies extended to him. Afterwards, the Service arranged for him to go back to his accommodation in town.

“The Service acted within the confines of its mandate and only carried out its routine security duty that could have been discharged by a similar agency in any part of the world. It is not out of place for concerned security agencies to have sought clarification from a traveller concerning a subject of security interest,” the DSS said.

The Service said that it is hoped that is clarification has dispelled the erroneous claims and reportage that Dr. Onimah was arrested.

The DSS reaffirmed its avowed commitment to the rule of law and protection of citizens and national critical assets.