KEY POINTS
- DSS has launched an investigation into the altercation involving its operatives, Omoyele Sowore, and correctional officials at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
- The agency said Sowore’s remand in Kuje Prison resulted from court proceedings and not any action taken by the DSS.
- DSS defended its decision to charge Sowore over an alleged cybercrime offence, insisting it followed legal processes and did not oppose his earlier bail.
The Department of State Services, DSS, has ordered an immediate investigation into the controversy surrounding a confrontation that occurred at the Federal High Court in Abuja and culminated in the remand of human rights activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje Correctional Centre.
The incident, which took place on June 22, 2026, generated widespread public attention after videos circulated on social media showing moments of tension between DSS operatives, correctional officials, and supporters of Sowore following a court order directing his remand.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the agency’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS acknowledged public concerns over the incident and assured Nigerians that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
According to the agency, the Director-General of the DSS had directed an immediate probe into the conduct of its personnel involved in the episode.
DSS Expresses Concern Over Viral Videos
The Service said it was equally disturbed by scenes captured in the viral videos, particularly those showing what appeared to be an altercation between Sowore and a correctional officer, as well as a scuffle involving DSS operatives.
The agency noted that despite the controversy surrounding his remand, Sowore eventually boarded a DSS vehicle instead of one belonging to the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The DSS stated that these developments raised questions that warranted internal review and accountability.
While addressing the controversy, the DSS sought to clarify the circumstances that led to the legal action against Sowore.
According to the agency, the matter originated from a social media post made by Sowore on August 25, 2025, through his X and Facebook accounts. The post allegedly accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of dishonesty regarding corruption in Nigeria.
The DSS quoted the post as stating that the President had travelled to Brazil and claimed there was no corruption in Nigeria, describing the statement as a shameless lie.
The agency argued that the comment amounted to a disparaging remark against the President and subsequently became the basis for legal proceedings.
The Service maintained that it did not immediately move to arrest Sowore following the publication.
Instead, it said a letter dated September 4, 2025, was sent to him requesting a retraction within one week.
According to the DSS, the move reflected the operational approach of the current Director-General, who prefers resolving disputes through dialogue and legal interpretation rather than arrests.
The agency stated that only when such efforts fail does it seek judicial intervention.