The Department of State Services (DSS) has refuted claims by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) that its operatives unlawfully invaded SERAP’s Abuja office.
On Monday, SERAP alleged that DSS agents were “unlawfully occupying” its office and demanding to see its directors, prompting SERAP to call on President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the DSS clarified that its operatives were dispatched to SERAP’s office for a routine investigation.
The DSS noted that it has received numerous inquiries regarding the incident.
The secret police’s explanation contrasts with SERAP’s account, raising questions about the nature and legitimacy of the DSS’s actions.
“This narrative is inaccurate and misleading in its intent,” the statement reads.
“For the records, a team of two (2) unarmed Service operatives were lawfully detailed on routine investigation to SERAP office in Abuja, which has sadly been skewed and misinterpreted as unlawful, harassment and intimidation of SERAP officials.
“The Service further wishes to state that such official enquiries and liaison are traditional and does not in any way amount to illegality or raid.
“While it assures of in-depth investigation of these malicious contents, it sues for citizens’ participation in national security management.”
The DSS asked the public to disregard “false narratives”, restating its commitment to professionalism in discharging its core mandate with utmost dedication and integrity.
