The Department of State Services, DSS, has begun a probe into the face-off between its operatives and officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on July 25 over the custody of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele.
Emefiele who is standing trial over alleged illegal passion of firearms was granted bail to the tune of N20 million by the court upon arraignment.
However, following moves by officials of the NCoS to take Emefiele to prison, DSS operatives went physical and took over the custody of the former CBN boss as he was whisked away.
The face-off has since become a source of controversy with the public condemning the “show of shame.”
But in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 26, the spokesman of the DSS, Dr. Peter Afunanya, said the matter was already being investigated.
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According to him, the probe was with a view to identify the role played by specific persons as well as undertaking disciplinary actions if necessary and drawing some lessons going forward.
Describing the face-off as unfortunate, he said the action of the operatives did not reflect the professional disposition of the DSS.
He said it was not the tradition of the DSS to undermine the judiciary.
“The DSS recognises the Judiciary as a critical component in nation-building, national development and security management,” Afunanya said.
He added: “Also, the service has a robust working relationship with sister security and law enforcement agencies including the NCoS.”
The spokesman stated further on the “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.”
