The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied claims that it was responsible for the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Custodial Centre, insisting that the decision was made by the court.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the agency said Sowore’s detention followed judicial proceedings and not any direct action by the DSS.
The clarification comes after public reactions to scenes at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Sowore was involved in a confrontation with officials before being taken into custody.
“The issues that led to Sowore’s remand arose entirely from court processes.”
The DSS explained that it neither arrested Sowore nor opposed his bail application during the legal proceedings.
The agency also revealed that its Director-General, Adeola Ajayi, has ordered an investigation into the conduct of operatives seen in viral videos recorded at the court premises.
According to the DSS, the case originated from social media posts made by Sowore in 2025 concerning President Bola Tinubu.
The agency said it initially sought a non-confrontational approach by requesting a retraction before later pursuing legal action through the courts.
It further noted that Sowore was granted bail on self-recognition at the beginning of the trial and that the DSS did not object to the application.
The agency maintained that it prefers resolving disputes through legal channels rather than arrests whenever possible.
“The Service did not oppose Sowore’s bail application.”
The DSS cited several previous cases to support its claim that it regularly seeks judicial remedies instead of taking coercive measures against individuals.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, due process and the rule of law while investigations into the court incident continue.
Source: DSS Statement
