The Department of State Services (DSS) says it has launched a probe into Tuesday’s clash between its operatives and some personnel of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) over custody of the suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Public Relations Officer (PRO) of DSS, Dr. Peter Afunanya disclosed this in a Wednesday statement.
Recall that Emefiele was arraigned before Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday, July 25.
The judge granted Emefiele N20 million bail with one surety in like sum, and ruled that the defendant be remanded at the correctional centre pending the fulfillment of the bail conditions.
However, DSS operatives and NCoS personnel were at daggers drawn on the court premises over the agency to take custody of the defendant.
The incident has attracted widespread criticism, especially to the DSS.
Reacting, the secret police described the incident as “unfortunate”, adding that it does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the service.
The service said it did not and would never encourage such incident.
“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.
“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 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,” the DSS said.