The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Mr. Kenneth Okechukwu Nwafor, a resident of Isuikwuato LGA in Abia State, who was wrongfully detained in July 2022 on allegations of affiliation with the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB). Following a comprehensive review of his case, the DSS has not only secured his release but also awarded him ₦5 million in compensation and committed to covering his medical expenses.
The directive for Mr. Nwafor’s release and compensation came from the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, who has initiated a system-wide reappraisal of pending cases. This review has also led to the release of three additional individuals from Abia State—Udemba, Onyedikachi, and Eze—previously held on similar suspicions.
A security insider revealed that the recent actions are part of a broader effort by the current DSS leadership to reinforce accountability and ensure due diligence in operations. Under DG Ajayi’s administration, the agency has taken steps to address past errors, including compensating victims of operational mishaps and wrongful detentions.
Recent instances include a ₦20 million compensation to a Jos-based businessman accidentally injured during a 2016 operation, and a ₦10 million award to an Abuja businesswoman wrongly detained over allegations of oil bunkering. Last month, the DSS also compensated three young men previously held on suspected IPOB links.
This shift toward greater transparency and responsibility signals a renewed commitment within the DSS to uphold justice and protect citizens’ rights.