Nigerians have continued to express mixed feelings following the altercation between the Department of State Service, DSS and the Nigerian Correctional Service official over custody of suspended Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, governor, Godwin Emefiele at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos.
After DSS had issued a press statement on its official Twitter handle that it has initiated an investigation into the event that led to the clash between its agents and the prison officials, Nigerians took to the comment section to bombard the agency for disrespecting the Judiciary.
In a tweet, Charles Okoronkwo responded to the DSS press statement via the comment section, saying, “This statement falls flat on its face. Full of nothing; a high court ordered he be remanded in a correctional facility until he fulfils his bail conditions. What part of that order didn’t you understand? You are not above the law.”
Toba Adeyeye, a Twitter user wrote, “Summary: we don’t know what transpired yet but can confirm we didn’t break any law and both agencies are wrong.
“You guys made conclusions on the incident but you are still investigating. Bravo”
Another Nigeria, Dunke Tostevin tweeted, “Please someone should help me ask Peter Afunanya where he got his PhD from!
“A PhD holder wrote that?”
See more comments;
Emperor Simeoni (Eminent Nigerian)
@simeonboxco
This is just a pile of big grammars that has not cleared the air of the broad daylight misconduct of the service. On top of it is a little flavor of bullying and intimidation.
Just clarify whether those personnel were acting on orders or not & disciplinary actions if taken.
Ngwongwo Ọgụ (Ọnụma ndị Nsọ)
@AguUgbajah
This post is useless!!! How many times has this agency invaded the court??? How many times has this agency arrogantly disobeyed court order??? Has this agency ever shown professionalism??? Does this agency uphold the rule of law??? No investigation will be done.. That’s the truth
Last Stylebender
@chineduanaz
You have told lies.
The shameful incident reflects the disposition of the DSS. An organisation that lauds itself above the laws of the land.
You said you are still investigating the issue, yet already drawn conclusions that you didn’t break any laws. Confused lots.
precxoflex
@precxoflex
Okay.. thank you for the press release… So has DSS now complied with the federal high court ruling by handing him over to the NCS…? You can’t continue flouting the court order and come here to say u will investigate. Obey the order and then u can investigate.Chief
Ọlánrèwájú ÒGÚNLÀNÀ
@lanre_ogunlana
Oga Peter, please this should not happen again, too embarrassing and shameful, we thought this anyhowness and lack of coordination stopped with Buhari Administration, let this be the last time. Okay? We want you to diligently prosecute Meffy. We are trusting you on this.
Godwin JP – JesusParrot
@JPTalksLive
This can be seen as good feedback, and trying to appeal to our emotions. It was so embarrassing how unprofessional your team acted, but the big question is – on what basis are you still detaining him? If you can’t answer, there is no point in this PR stunt your agency is pulling.
Read DSS press statement below:
DSS INVESTIGATES 25THJULY, 2023, FEDERAL HIGH COURT, IKOYI, LAGOS INCIDENT
The public will recall that Mr Godwin Emefiele, suspended CBN Governor, was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on 25th July, 2023. The Service has noted the incident that took place between its staff and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and wish to state as follows:
i. The incident was unfortunate and does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the DSS;
ii. The Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference;
iii. 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;
iv. 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.
Peter Afunanya, Ph.D
Public Relations Officer,
Department of State Services,
National Headquarters,
Abuja
26th July, 2023
