DSS denies arresting writer Okey Ndibe, clarifies airport interaction as watchlist review

According to a statement by Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the interaction was part of a routine process to review and remove individuals from its watchlist. The DSS explained that its current Director-General ordered a review of old watchlist actions, some dating back to the military era, to prevent citizens from being unnecessarily embarrassed by outdated security alerts. Individuals previously placed on watchlists are routinely invited for interaction as a prerequisite for a review and possible downgrade or final delisting.

The agency stated that Ndibe had been on its watchlist since January 29, 2013, but his case has since been reviewed and downgraded. His interface at the airport was geared towards the final delisting of his details, and he was cleared after less than an hour. The DSS noted that Ndibe acknowledged the professional conduct of its operatives in a Facebook post.

The Service also mentioned that several Nigerians, including journalists like Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, have benefited from this ongoing review exercise. The DSS reiterated its commitment to fair treatment of citizens and encouraged individuals affected by watchlist actions to contact its headquarters for review.