The Department of State Services (DSS) has reacted to the scuffle that broke out between its officials and that of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) over the custody of former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele.

The DSS in a statement on Wednesday said the incident was unfortunate and does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the agency.

It also said that it has initiated detailed investigations into the matter and will take disciplinary action if necessary.

The scuffle occurred on Tuesday, after Emefiele was granted bail by a federal high court in Lagos. The court ordered that Emefiele be remanded in the custody of the NCoS until he met his bail conditions. However, DSS officials attempted to re-arrest Emefiele, leading to a physical confrontation between the two sets of security agents.

The DSS said that it respects the judiciary and will not go out of its way to undermine it. It also said that it has a robust working relationship with the NCoS.

The full statement by the DSS reads:

DSS INVESTIGATES 25THJULY, 2023, FEDERAL HIGH COURT, IKOYI, LAGOS INCIDENT

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:

i. The incident was unfortunate and does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the DSS;

ii. The Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference;

iii. 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 robust working relationship with sister Security and Law Enforcement agencies including the NCoS;

iv. 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. 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 and, therefore, enjoin well-meaning Nigerians to support it in achieving the desired security goals for the nation. It is imperative to note that we have no other country but Nigeria. We should join hands, with love and tolerance, to build it.

Peter Afunanya, Ph.D

Public Relations Officer,

Department of State Services,

National Headquarters,

Abuja

26th July, 2023