By Yinka Giwa
The Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has reaffirmed his commitment to justice and institutional integrity by directing the immediate release of three men earlier arrested on allegations of banditry and kidnapping. Alongside their release, Ajayi approved the payment of ₦3 million in compensation to the trio: Umar Ibrahim, Alhaji Bello Rabiu, and Jaja Sarki Bamo, after a thorough review found they were apprehended in error.
According to credible security sources, investigations revealed no connection between the individuals and the crimes for which they were initially detained. Their release and compensation form part of a wider initiative led by Ajayi to correct past mistakes and uphold the highest standards of due process within the agency.
The DSS has been undergoing months-long case reviews, resulting in the discharge of several suspects subsequently proven innocent, while those found culpable continue to face prosecution. Sources within the agency describe this as a deliberate effort by the DG to strengthen public trust and reinforce a culture of fairness.
“The DG DSS is an honorable man who acknowledges errors and rectifies them swiftly. He ensures due process is followed and that the right thing is done,” one insider shared, noting Ajayi’s consistent push for internal accountability.
Another senior source praised the DG’s humanity, recalling his earlier decision to pay double compensation to a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot years ago. “His approach to accountability and humanity should be studied. With these compensations, officers will remain vigilant and uphold the highest professional standards,” the source added.
The released individuals themselves expressed gratitude to the DSS leadership. They noted that throughout their detention, they were treated with dignity, properly fed, and never abused. “We cooperated throughout the investigation and are thankful to the DG. We pray for God’s mercy upon him,” Ibrahim said on behalf of the group.
The arrests had occurred in June 2025 as part of the agency’s heightened security measures amid escalating national threats. The suspects were intercepted at the Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, after returning from the 2025 Hajj exercise.