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DSS slams claims citizens are languishing in its detention facilities

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So our democracy is only under threat when DSS, police harass senators?

The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied allegations levelled against it by popular writer, Olusegun Adeniyi, in a recent article titled “Beyond Abba Kyari’s Indictment”, calling on the general public to ignore the claim.

Adeniyi had in his article, alleged that several innocent citizens were languishing in DSS detention facilities, while the department maintained that the claim was false.

In a statement released by the agency on Thursday, signed by its spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, the DSS said it does not detain or arrest anyone on the orders of private citizens.

The statement read, “Dear Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi, without efforts to join issues with you on an opinion expressed by you in your article of 5th August 2021 on the above subject matter, the SSS takes exceptions to the part that states that “Hundreds of innocent citizens are currently languishing in Police and State Security Services (SSS) detention centres across the country, following arrests ordered by powerful men and women.

“This is not true. I do not speak for the Police but it is certain that no Nigerian or anyone for that matter is in the SSS/DSS custody on the order(s) of private citizens or persons.

Read also: HURIWA wants DSS to set up human rights desk

“The SSS has an SOP on the criminal justice administration. The media owes a duty, propelled by good conscience and common good, to guide public narratives about some government agencies and their sacrifices to uphold the security, peace, and unity of this nation, Nigeria. The SSS should not be run down given the slightest opportunity.

“You had been at the commanding heights of governance and national security administration and management to understand issues so as not to misinform the public. It is unacceptable for a respectable columnist of your experience and status to make a sweeping statement like the one herein.

“It is misleading, inciting, denigrating, demeaning, misinforming and should be withdrawn. The SSS and indeed security agencies, if not praised, should be supported. The Organisation may not be perfect but it is doing so much for the Country. It respects and loves the citizens and residents and strives to serve them based on best practices, rule of law/engagement, and a balance between rights and national security.

“Thank you Sir as you correct this erroneous impression created about the Service. I remain your partner in progress and service to fatherland.”

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