DSS Director General Demonstrates Commitment to Human Rights with Release of 12 Suspects
In a significant move underscoring his administration’s focus on human rights, the Director General of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Tosin Ajayi, has ordered the release of 12 suspects held by the security agency, while approving substantial compensation packages for victims of wrongful detention.
Latest Release and Compensation
On Saturday, the DSS released Abdulyakini Salisu, who had been in custody since 2022, marking the twelfth detainee freed in July alone. The Service not only apologized to Salisu but also directed a payment of ₦10 million as “initial compensation,” with indications suggesting additional support may follow.
Security sources revealed that Salisu, who operated a stone quarry along the Zuba-Kaduna expressway before his arrest, will also receive free medical services at DSS facilities indefinitely. This gesture follows similar compensation paid earlier this year, including ₦20 million to a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot during a 2016 operation.
Broader Reform Initiative
This development represents the third high-profile case of detainee release since Ajayi assumed office in August 2024. The DSS chief has instituted sweeping reforms aimed at correcting past human rights violations while maintaining national security.
Previous Releases
Earlier in July, the Service freed and compensated 11 individuals arrested in Osun State on terrorism-related charges. Among them were Mohammed Adamu, Adamu Abubakar, Mohammed Bindi, and Baba Kura Mallam. The exact compensation amounts remain undisclosed but are reported to run into millions of naira.
In another case, the DG intervened in the situation of Mohammed Ciroma Jr., a 400-level Computer Science student at Modibbo Adama University, Yola. After case review, the DSS committed to facilitating his reinstatement and providing a full scholarship.
Accountability Measures
The DG has mandated disciplinary actions against officers involved in questionable arrests. A top DSS officer, speaking anonymously, revealed that Ajayi established a special committee to review inherited cases and monitor human rights compliance.
“The DG gave a clear directive that he wouldn’t mind the source of any information about unjust detentions. He ordered the public relations department to update him on all reports of unfair treatment,” the source disclosed.
Philosophical Shift
Ajayi’s approach marks a departure from previous DSS operations, emphasizing that security measures shouldn’t come at the expense of citizens’ rights. The DG has reportedly reminded officers of President Bola Tinubu’s directive against human rights abuses under the current administration.
The source added: “The DG acknowledges that security agencies worldwide make mistakes. His position is that when errors occur, the Service must own them, apologize, and provide appropriate compensation.”
Operational Changes
Visible reforms include prohibiting operatives from openly carrying firearms during routine operations and establishing transparent mechanisms for addressing grievances. These changes align with Ajayi’s August 2024 pledge to make the DSS “more covert and efficient while demonstrating utmost respect for human rights.”
As the review committee continues examining pending cases, more releases and compensations are expected, signaling a new chapter in Nigeria’s security operations that balances national safety with fundamental freedoms.
Full credit to the original publisher: Dateline Nigeria