The State Security Service (SSS) has announced that it will conduct a thorough investigation into a recent brawl involving its operatives and officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. The altercation took place during the arraignment of the suspended Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, on charges of illegal possession of weapons.

In a statement issued by SSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, the agency expressed its deep regret over the incident, considering it unfortunate and emphasizing that such behavior does not represent the professional disposition of the SSS. The agency asserted that it does not condone nor encourage such actions.

“The public will recall that Mr. Godwin Emefiele, suspended CBN Governor, was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on 25th July 2023. The Service has noted the incident that took place between its staff and those of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and wishes to state as follows: The incident was unfortunate and does not in any way reflect the professional disposition of the DSS; The Service did not and would never encourage the incident under reference,” the SSS statement read.

The videos that surfaced online showed SSS operatives charging at an NCS officer and tearing his uniform open during the face-off at the court premises. The incident has sparked outrage, with rights activists and the Nigerian Bar Association condemning the SSS’s actions as a “show of shame.”

The SSS assured the public that it remains committed to upholding the law and maintaining professionalism in its operations. The investigation will seek to identify the root cause of the altercation and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.

Source: Peoples Gazette