Emefiele: DSS open investigation into face-off with prison officials in court

The Department of State Services (DSS) has said it will investigate the face-off between its operatives and officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) at the federal high court in Ikoyi on July 25.

In a statement on Wednesday, Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson, 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;

“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; 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.”

DSS operatives had a face-off with prison officials over the custody of Godwin Emefiele, suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).