Sowore: DSS begins probe of operatives’ conduct

The Department of State Services, DSS, has announced an investigation into the conduct of its operatives following the remand of activist Omoyele Sowore at Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.

The Service said it was aware of public concerns arising from events at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June Monday which led to Sowore’s remand, including an altercation involving a custodial officer and a reported scuffle with security operatives.

This was made known in a statement on Tuesday by Favour Dozie, DSS Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications.

According to the DSS, although Sowore was eventually taken to Kuje Prison, he reportedly opted to be transported in a DSS vehicle instead of a Correctional Service vehicle, a development the agency described as unusual and part of the circumstances under review.

The DSS said its Director-General has ordered an immediate investigation into the conduct of operatives involved in the incident.

Providing background, the agency said Sowore’s case stemmed from a post he allegedly made on his social media accounts on August 25, 2025, in which he criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over remarks made during a foreign trip.

It said rather than arrest him immediately, the Service issued a letter on September 4, 2025, demanding a retraction within one week, in line with what it described as efforts to resolve such matters without force.

The DSS referenced previous cases, including the Federal High Court’s ruling that declared Prof. Pat Utomi’s “Shadow Government” unconstitutional, as well as instances where it said it sought apologies or judicial clarification over alleged false publications involving its operatives.

The agency also cited past defamation cases involving allegations against its personnel, noting that courts had ruled in favour of its officers.

It further stated that Sowore was charged under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, and that he was granted bail on self-recognition without opposition from the DSS.

The Service maintained that the remand and related proceedings were based strictly on court processes, adding that it neither effected the arrest nor opposed the bail granted to Sowore.

The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, even in the face of public criticism.