Fresh Twist In Sowore Case: DSS Probes Own Officers After Kuje Remand Controversy
By Passman Akpos
The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced an investigation into the conduct of its operatives following the remand of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
The agency said it was responding to public concerns surrounding events that occurred at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, which culminated in Sowore’s remand. The concerns reportedly include an altercation involving a custodial officer and a scuffle between security operatives and individuals present at the court premises.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by DSS Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the Service disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an immediate investigation into the actions of all operatives involved in the incident.
According to the DSS, although Sowore was eventually transferred to Kuje Correctional Centre, he allegedly chose to be transported in a DSS vehicle rather than a vehicle belonging to the Nigerian Correctional Service. The agency described the development as unusual and said it forms part of the circumstances being examined.
Providing further details, the DSS said the case against Sowore originated from a social media post allegedly made on August 25, 2025, in which he criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over comments made during an overseas trip.
The Service stated that instead of arresting him immediately, it initially issued a letter dated September 4, 2025, requesting that he retract the publication within one week. According to the agency, this approach was consistent with its policy of seeking non-coercive resolutions where possible.
The DSS also cited previous legal matters to support its position, including a Federal High Court ruling involving Pat Utomi and his proposed “Shadow Government,” which it said the court declared unconstitutional. The agency further referenced past defamation cases and judicial decisions involving allegations against its personnel, noting that courts had ruled in favor of its officers in several instances.
The Service explained that Sowore was charged under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. It emphasized that he was granted bail on self-recognition and maintained that it did not oppose the bail application.
The DSS insisted that the remand order and all related proceedings were products of court processes, stressing that it neither carried out Sowore’s arrest nor sought to prevent his release on bail.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, the rule of law, and accountability, the agency said it would continue to operate within constitutional and legal frameworks despite public scrutiny and criticism.
The announcement comes amid growing national debate over Sowore’s detention, with civil society groups, opposition figures, and supporters calling for greater transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding the court proceedings and his remand.
