Sowore: DSS launches investigation into operatives' conduct

The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced that it will investigate the conduct of its operatives after activist Omoyele Sowore was remanded to Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.

The Service said it was aware of public concerns that arose from events at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, June 24, which led to Sowore’s remand. These events included an altercation with a custodial officer and a reported scuffle involving security operatives.

The information was released in a statement on Tuesday by Favour Dozie, DSS Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications.

According to the DSS, although Sowore was eventually taken to Kuje Prison, he reportedly chose to be transported in a DSS vehicle rather than a Correctional Service vehicle—a choice the agency described as unusual and part of the circumstances under review.

The DSS stated that its Director‑General has ordered an immediate investigation into the conduct of the operatives involved in the incident.

The agency provided background, noting that Sowore’s case stemmed from a post he allegedly made on his social media accounts on August 25, 2025, in which he criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over remarks made during a foreign trip.

Rather than arrest him immediately, the Service issued a letter on September 4, 2025, demanding a retraction within one week, in line with its stated efforts to resolve such matters without force.

The DSS referenced previous cases, including the Federal High Court’s ruling that declared Prof. Pat Utomi’s “Shadow Government” unconstitutional, and other instances where it sought apologies or judicial clarification over alleged false publications involving its operatives.

The agency also cited past defamation cases involving allegations against its personnel, noting that courts had ruled in favour of its officers.

It further stated that Sowore was charged under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, and that he was granted bail on self‑recognition without opposition from the DSS.

The Service maintained that the remand and related proceedings were based strictly on court processes, adding that it neither effected the arrest nor opposed the bail granted to Sowore.

The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, even amid public criticism.