RismadarVoice Reporters, June 24, 2026
The Department of State Services (DSS) has ordered an internal 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, the agency disclosed that its Director-General had directed an immediate review of the actions of personnel involved in the incident, which occurred after Sowore was remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre.
The DSS said the decision followed public reactions to a video circulating online that appeared to show an altercation involving Sowore, officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service, and DSS operatives after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 22.
According to the agency, the investigation is aimed at determining whether the conduct of the operatives was in line with established operational procedures and professional standards.
The DSS also used the opportunity to clarify its role in the case involving the activist, stating that the matter originated from a social media post allegedly published by Sowore in August 2025 concerning President Bola Tinubu.
The agency explained that rather than immediately pursuing enforcement measures, it initially sought a retraction of the publication through a formal letter sent in September 2025.
It added that legal proceedings were later instituted to obtain judicial interpretation of issues arising from the publication under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
According to the DSS, Sowore was granted bail on self-recognition at the commencement of the trial, and the agency did not oppose the application for bail.
The Service further maintained that the decision to revoke the bail and remand Sowore was made by the court during the course of the proceedings.
The statement noted that the DSS has, in previous cases involving media publications and public statements, pursued legal remedies and sought corrections or apologies through judicial channels rather than resorting to arbitrary actions.
Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the agency stated that it remains dedicated to professionalism, civility, and respect for the rule of law in the discharge of its responsibilities.
The DSS added that the outcome of the ongoing investigation would determine whether further action is required regarding the conduct of the operatives involved in the incident.
