The Department of State Services (DSS) says it will carry out an investigation into the brawl between its officials and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) that occurred at the Lagos State Federal High Court, July 25.
Recall that on Tuesday, Godwin Emefiele, suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was arraigned for charges bordering on “illegal possession of firearms” at the court in Ikoyi and was granted N20 million bail.
Justice Nicholas Oweibo, ruled that Emefiele be remanded at the correctional centre, pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions but DSS operatives insisted on taking him into custody.
The duo had a face off over who would move Emefiele from the premises, with the DSS forcefully grabbing him from prison officers back into their custody.
Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson,via a statement on Wednesday, described the incident as “unfortunate,” and that “it does not reflect the professional disposition of the service.”
According to him, DSS has respect for the judiciary and would 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 a robust working relationship with sister security and law enforcement agencies including the NCoS,” Afunanya said.
He furthered that the personnel of both agencies exhibited “undue overzealousness,” and that the DSS has initiated an investigation 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.
“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,” he said.
He however urged well-meaning Nigerians to support the service in achieving the desired security goals for the nation.
