The Department of State Services (DSS) is a Nigerian security agency responsible for the protection of the country’s internal security, primarily dealing with intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism activities. While the agency plays a crucial role in the maintenance of national security, there have been numerous concerns about its practices, particularly regarding unlawful detention.
Unlawful detention refers to the act of holding an individual in custody without legal justification or due process. The DSS has come under heavy criticism for its alleged involvement in such unlawful practices. Despite constitutional safeguards protecting the rights of citizens, instances of arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention without trial have been reported, raising serious human rights concerns.
One notable case that exposed the issue of unlawful detention by the DSS is the prolonged detention of Omoyele Sowore, a prominent human rights activist and journalist. In August 2019, Sowore was arrested for organizing protests demanding good governance and an end to corruption in Nigeria. Despite being granted bail by the court, the DSS refused to release him for several months, sparking nationwide outrage and condemnation from international human rights organizations.
Another example is the detention of Otunba Femi Davies, prominent journalist and the former chairman of Media and Publicity of Ogun State All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council (APC-PCC). On August 7, 2023, Otunba Davies honoured an invitation from the DSS and his family and friends have been unable to reach him since 10:00 in the morning.
Cases like Sowore and Otunba Davies’ highlight the need for the DSS to adhere strictly to the principles of the rule of law and respect for human rights. Although the agency plays a vital role in national security, it should not operate above the law. Arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention without trial, and disregard for court orders not only violate individuals’ fundamental rights but also undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in the system.
The implications of unlawful detention are far-reaching. It not only violates the rights of the detained individuals but also affects their families, communities, and the wider society. Unlawful detention can breed a sense of fear and insecurity among the citizenry, as anyone could potentially be subjected to arbitrary arrest and detention. Moreover, it weakens the justice system by creating a perception that the law is not applied equally or fairly, eroding public confidence in the government institutions responsible for maintaining law and order.
To address the issue of unlawful detention, the DSS should implement comprehensive reforms aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights. This includes establishing clear protocols and procedures for arrest and detention, improving training for DSS personnel on the importance of human rights, and strengthening oversight mechanisms to prevent abuses.
Furthermore, the Nigerian government must take proactive steps to enforce the rule of law by holding accountable those responsible for unlawful detention. There should be clear consequences for officials who violate citizens’ rights, including appropriate disciplinary actions and prosecutions where necessary.
International organizations and the global community also play a vital role in advocating for an end to unlawful detention and promoting respect for human rights in Nigeria. They should continue to pressure the government to address this issue and support the development of systems and institutions that uphold the rule of law and protect individuals’ rights.
Unlawful detention by the Department of State Services is a serious concern that requires immediate attention. By recognizing the importance of respecting individuals’ rights and implementing necessary reforms, the DSS can regain public trust and contribute to a more just and secure Nigeria.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
