The Department of State Services (DSS) has recently disclosed that it has uncovered the existence of certain individuals and groups who are planning to orchestrate campaigns of calumny against both the DSS and the Federal Government regarding the ongoing investigation of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
According to Dr. Peter Afunanya, the spokesperson for the DSS, these groups have intentions of gathering at various locations in Abuja and Lagos in the upcoming week, wielding placards that portray the DSS and the government in a negative light, while simultaneously demanding the immediate release of Emefiele.
In an official statement, Dr. Afunanya remarked, “The Service is, therefore, aware of a cheap propaganda aimed at demotivating and distracting it from professionally executing the onerous responsibilities assigned to it. It has also noted the misleading commentaries, speculative narratives, storylines, and videos being circulated in the social media by uninformed parties, critics, and/or desperadoes.”
The DSS remains cognizant of potential efforts to infiltrate its ranks with disloyal staff members for subversive purposes against its leadership.
The Service issued a stern warning to the plotters, urging them to immediately desist from their plans. Dr. Afunanya further stated that those behind the campaign are already under surveillance and will be apprehended if necessary.
Furthermore, Dr. Afunanya clarified certain aspects of the ongoing investigation. He stated, “It is instructive to state that the Service had granted the family of Emefiele, medical officials, and appropriate persons access to him right from the day he was taken in and long before the court order requesting so.”
The spokesperson emphasized that the DSS adheres strictly to the Standard Operating Procedures on Suspect Handling and Investigation, conducts its affairs transparently and professionally, and upholds the rule of law in compliance with democratic governance.
Despite the challenges posed by the campaign against it, the DSS assured the public of its unwavering professionalism in handling the current matters under its purview.
It underscored that it will not be swayed, distracted, or intimidated in fulfilling its responsibilities. The DSS is determined to maintain its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a thorough and unbiased investigation.