The Department of State Services (DSS) has said the incident that took place between its staff and those of Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) over custody of suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele is unfortunate.
The Service through its Spokesman made this known while stated that the incident does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the DSS; and the Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference.
Recalled that the DSS operatives and officials of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) clashed violently over the custody of suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, at the premises of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday.
The embattled suspended CBN Governor, Emefiele faced two counts of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition preferred against him by the Federal Ministry of Justice before the vacation judge, Justice Nicholas Oweibo.
He was accused of possessing a single-barrelled shotgun (JOJEFF MAGNUM 8371) without a licence and illegally being in possession of 23 rounds of live ammunition (cartridges) without a licence.
And was granted bail after pleading not guilty to two counts bordering on the alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, while the court ordered Emefiele be remanded at the correctional center pending the fulfilment of the bail conditions.
The Security Service said further that it tremendous respect for the Judiciary as an Arm and Institution of Government and will not go out of its way to undermine it, recognises the Judiciary as a critical component in nation building, national development and security management.
It said there has been robust working relationship with sister Security and Law Enforcement agencies including the NCoS; While noted that the personnel from both Agencies exhibited undue overzealousness, the Service has further initiated detailed investigations into the matter.
The Service stated that the investigation is with a view to identifying the role played by specific persons as well as undertaking disciplinary actions if necessary and drawing some lessons going forward.
The DSS emphasized that it has not broken any laws in handling the Emefiele Case despite efforts by some elements to skew the narratives to the contrary, adding that the Service had since alerted public of sinister plots to discredit its leadership.
“In pursuit of its assignments, it will strive to remain professional, maintain ethical standards and high sense of discipline. The Service will ensure that it will not be used for clout and fame chasing or delusional heroism.
“It will, however, remain focused on its national security mandate and, therefore, enjoin well-meaning Nigerians to support it in achieving the desired security goals for the nation. It is imperative to note that we have no other country but Nigeria. We should join hands, with love and tolerance, to build it”.