DSS Moves to Check Overzealous Operatives, End Arbitrary Conduct

…Releases Detained Journalists
…New Boss Vows Sanctions for Misconduct

By Our Reporter

The Department of State Services (DSS) has begun moves to curb arbitrary actions and unprofessional conduct within its ranks, following the reported wrongful arrest of two journalists in Jos, Plateau State, during President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the state.

A credible security source confided that the new Director-General of the Service, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, has ordered a sweeping review of internal procedures to check overzealous conduct and uphold civil liberties within the ambit of the law, as part of broader institutional reforms within the intelligence agency.

As part of the new drive, the DSS at the weekend released two reporters of Jay 101.9 FM, Ms. Ruth Marcus and Ms. Keshia Jang, who had been wrongfully detained by field officers during the President’s visit for the burial of the mother of the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.

According to the source, upon learning of the incident, the DG ordered the journalists’ immediate release and directed that an internal investigation be conducted to identify and sanction those responsible.

The Director-General was reportedly outraged when he heard that some overzealous operatives had arrested journalists carrying out their lawful duties and immediately intervened, ordering their release and directing the agency to reach out to the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) to apologize, this newspaper learnt.

The DG was said to have assured NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, that the new DSS management “treasures the importance of a free press in a democracy” and will not tolerate any act that undermines that principle.

“The new DG is correcting the wrongs he inherited. One of them is overzealousness,” the source added. “This is why he has not failed to admit it whenever the Service makes mistakes. We have seen several cases where the DSS has apologized and even compensated victims of wrongful arrests.”

Under Ajayi’s leadership, the DSS has reportedly taken steps to restore public confidence by promoting accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights.

“This DG is an absolute believer in human rights and press freedom,” another source emphasized. “He wants the DSS to be seen not as a tool of intimidation, but as a professional security agency guided by law, ethics, and national interest.”

The latest move comes amid growing public concern over the conduct of some security operatives during official assignments, particularly when high-profile political figures are involved. Analysts say the DG’s swift response to the Jay FM arrests may signal a new era of accountability within the Service.

The DSS, established in 1986, has long faced criticism over perceived excesses by the agency, including arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions. However, security observers note that recent leadership changes have brought a more reform-minded approach focused on professionalism and institutional integrity.

As of press time, both journalists had been released unconditionally and are expected to have since resumed their lawful duties at Jay FM, Jos.