The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted the public about the discovery of individuals and groups plotting to launch a campaign of calumny against both the agency and the government. This comes as a result of the suspension and investigation of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
In a statement released on Saturday by Peter Afunanya, the DSS’s Public Relations Officer at the National Headquarters in Abuja, it was revealed that these individuals and groups plan to gather in Abuja and Lagos in the following week, brandishing placards that tarnish the image of both the Service and the government, while also demanding the immediate release of Emefiele.
The DSS affirmed that it is aware of attempts by these plotters to infiltrate its ranks, with the aim of employing disloyal staff to carry out subversive activities against its leadership. Hence, the agency issued a stern warning, cautioning the plotters to abandon their plans immediately.
The statement reads: “The Department of State Services (DSS) has identified persons and groups planning to stage campaigns of calumny against it and the Government over the suspension and investigation of Mr Godwin Emefiele. Such groups intend to gather at different points in Abuja and Lagos in the coming week with placards depicting the Service and government in a bad light as well as calling for the immediate release of Emefiele.”
The DSS further emphasized that it is well aware of the propaganda being propagated to undermine and distract it from effectively executing its duties. This includes misleading commentaries, speculative narratives, storylines, and videos circulated on social media platforms by uninformed individuals, critics, or desperadoes.
The agency also assured the public that it operates in accordance with standard operating procedures regarding suspect handling and investigation. It conducts its affairs with transparency, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law, in line with democratic governance.
Additionally, the DSS affirmed that despite circulating rumors, it had granted access to Emefiele’s family, medical officials, and relevant individuals since his initial detention, even prior to a court order mandating such access.
The statement concluded with a strong message, stating: “For the avoidance of doubt, it assures of its professionalism in the current matter(s) under its purview. It will, however, not be distracted or intimidated.”
