DSS Orders Probe into Operatives’ Conduct Following Sowore Court Incident

The Department of State Services (DSS) has commenced an investigation into the conduct of its operatives following an incident involving activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, after court proceedings in Abuja.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday by the agency’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an immediate inquiry into the actions of personnel involved in the incident that occurred after Sowore’s remand to the Kuje Correctional Centre.

The Service said it had taken note of public concerns generated by a viral video showing an altercation involving Sowore, a correctional service official and DSS operatives following proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 22.

According to the statement, the DSS considered it necessary to clarify its involvement in the case as well as the circumstances surrounding Sowore’s remand.

The agency explained that the charges against Sowore originated from a social media post published in August 2025 in which he made remarks concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The DSS stated that rather than immediately taking enforcement action, it initially requested a retraction of the publication through a letter dated September 4, 2025.

The Service further explained that legal proceedings were subsequently initiated to seek judicial interpretation of issues arising from the publication under the provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

According to the agency, Sowore was granted bail on self-recognition at the commencement of the trial, adding that it did not oppose the bail application.

The DSS maintained that the circumstances leading to the revocation of the bail and Sowore’s subsequent remand were decisions that emanated from court proceedings.

The agency also cited previous instances in which it sought judicial remedies or requested corrections and apologies in matters involving media reports and public statements, describing such actions as part of its commitment to lawful processes.

Reaffirming its position, the DSS stated that it remains committed to professionalism, civility and adherence to the rule of law in the discharge of its responsibilities.

The statement added that the outcome of the internal investigation would determine whether the conduct of the operatives involved was consistent with the agency’s operational standards and procedures.

Meanwhile, the development comes amid heightened public interest in the case involving Sowore and the events that followed the court proceedings in Abuja.