The Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria’s secret police, has refuted reports suggesting the arrest of former Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State for allegedly ignoring a phone call from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a statement released by the DSS Public Relations Officer, Peter Afunanya, the agency dismissed these claims as baseless and referred to them as examples of sensational and unreliable journalism.
The DSS further denied allegations that it conducted raids on the offices of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), seizing files in the process. The agency clarified that it had not carried out any operations at these institutions, and both the ICPC and the CCB have issued their own statements refuting the allegations.
The DSS expressed its reluctance to respond to such inaccuracies but recognized the need to address them in order to prevent the spread of misinformation among vulnerable individuals and the general public. The agency emphasized that the accusations lack any factual basis or credibility and are mere fabrications.
The DSS attributed these false reports to certain media outlets known for their tendency to publish fake news, engage in character assassinations, and promote sensational journalism. While the agency acknowledged being aware of the sponsors behind these campaigns of defamation, it stated its commitment to allowing them to exhaust themselves, confident that they will eventually face justice.
The DSS reiterated its dedication to upholding the rule of law, respecting the independence of other agencies such as the Judiciary and Legislature, and fulfilling its statutory duties as mandated by constituted authorities. It emphasized its professionalism and the accolades it has received from stakeholders for its excellent performance in handling critical national issues.
In conclusion, the DSS urged the public to disregard these misleading stories aimed at sowing discord and undermining the agency’s leadership. It pledged to continue working with relevant stakeholders to address security challenges in Nigeria, undeterred by the distractions created by detractors and hostile agents.
