The Department of State Security (DSS) says it will investigate the incident involving its personnel and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in which the security agencies fought over the custody of suspended Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya stated that the agency would not encourage such an incident, noting that it has a strong working relationship with sister security and law enforcement organisations, including the NCoS.
News.ng had reported how some DSS officials engaged in a public fight with NCoS personnel, during which operatives of the secret police tore the uniform of a prison officer at the federal high court in Lagos.
The footage of the incident, which went viral on social media, elicited a wide range of reactions. The incident was denounced by many Nigerians, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Mr Emefiele was being tried at the court on two count charges of alleged possession of illegal arms and was granted a bail of N20 million after he pleaded not guilty to the charges.
But in the statement, the DSS noted that while it describes the public act of the two security officials as unfortunate, it said DSS has not broken any laws in handling the Emefiele Case despite efforts by some elements to skew the narratives to the contrary.
“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 further said it 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.” it said.
