The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced an investigation into the conduct of its operatives following an incident involving activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, after court proceedings in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the agency’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS said its Director-General had directed an immediate inquiry into the actions of personnel involved in the incident that followed Sowore’s remand to the Kuje Correctional Centre.
The agency said it took note of public concerns arising from a video showing an altercation involving Sowore, a correctional service official and DSS operatives after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 22.
According to the statement, the DSS considered it necessary to clarify its role in the case and the circumstances surrounding Sowore’s remand.
The agency explained that the charges against Sowore stem from a social media post published in August 2025, in which he made remarks concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The DSS stated that it initially requested a retraction of the publication through a letter dated September 4, 2025, rather than taking enforcement action.
According to the agency, legal proceedings were subsequently initiated to seek judicial interpretation of issues arising from the publication under the provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
The Service noted that Sowore was granted bail on self-recognition at the commencement of the trial and said it did not oppose the bail application.
It further maintained that the circumstances leading to the revocation of the bail and Sowore’s subsequent remand were decisions arising from court proceedings.
The DSS also cited previous instances in which it sought judicial remedies or requested corrections and apologies in matters involving media reports and public statements, describing such actions as part of its commitment to lawful processes.
Reaffirming its position, the agency said it remains committed to professionalism, civility and adherence to the rule of law in carrying out its responsibilities.
The statement added that the outcome of the internal investigation would help determine whether the conduct of the operatives involved was consistent with the agency’s operational standards and procedures.
