The Department of State Services (DSS), has reacted to reports making the rounds in the media on some internal affairs of the Service, especially with regards to the alleged pressure being mounted on the Acting Director-General of the agency, Mr. Mathew Seiyefa over his reform agenda.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Spokesperson of DSS, Mr. Peter Afunanya, who noted that the agency is bound to obey constituted and legitimate orders.
Afunanya noted that despite the fact that the media reports “are unhealthy for the Service and indeed, Nigeria”, “DSS has undoubtedly remained a committed Service with focus on the stability and security of the nation”.
To this end, he called for partnership with the media and closer cooperation to enhance national security.
The statement reads, “Over the years, the Service has been known to be both a strategic stabilizer and a unifying factor in the Nigerian project.
“It therefore deserves and desires to be focused and supported by all stakeholders to play the expected role in a democracy.
“Only a professionally driven DSS can support and consolidate Nigeria’s democracy.
“Though Intelligence Services world over operate covertly, it is also held accountable in a democratic practice.
“To accomplish this, they design strategic alliances with partners and stakeholders.
“The media is one of such partners. Held in utmost respect, the media is called upon to report issues of national security with caution to avoid a breach of peace.
“No deliberate effort should be made by self-serving interests to bring the Service to ridicule.
“No country or its media can afford to undermine their own security forces because of the dire consequences that portends.
“The Service, as an institution of Government will continue to carry out legitimate orders; support democratic institutions; respect the rule of law and protect the citizens in line with global practices and Standard Operations Procedures (SOPs) in Intelligence gathering and law enforcement.
“Dark forces should not bring the Service into a collision with the Government it is meant to diligently serve.”
“The Service is undaunted and will pursue noble goals only meant to uphold integrity in security and intelligence governance.
“This is a global trend for accountability. Its personnel across the Commands and Formations have been enjoined to be calm, loyal and united in the discharge of their duties as the Service has remained of the few Institutions in the country that has exhibited unquestionable oneness and commonality of purpose in advancing the interest of the Nation.”
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