By Comrade B. P Manasseh
In the quest for democracy in Nigeria, one disconcerting shadow looms large over the nation – the Department of State Services (DSS). Once revered for its role in safeguarding national security, the DSS has come under increasing scrutiny for its alleged lawlessness and abuse of power. As an advocate for justice, it is crucial to shed light on the haunting experiences of individuals like Emeka Richmond, and to expose the agency’s alarming disregard for the rule of law.
Emeka Richmond’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the perils faced by those who dare to express their freedom of speech in Nigeria. His mere act of engaging with a social media post associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) became the catalyst for a nightmarish encounter with the DSS. Despite no tangible threat posed, he suffered the brunt of their excessive force – beaten to the point of losing his hearing in one ear, denied essential medical care, and enduring an unjustified detention for an extended period.
Tragically, Emeka’s ordeal is not an isolated incident. A parallel account finds roots in the heart of Abuja, where a group of friends and comrades gathered for a peaceful thanksgiving service. Clad in T-shirts that boldly declared “BUHARI MUST GO,” their intent was to pray and petition for change in the nation’s leadership. Little did they anticipate that their act of worship would provoke an unwarranted intervention by the DSS, under the influence of a powerful church overseer.
The DSS’s response was nothing short of appalling. The friends were subjected to torture and inhumane treatment, kept in chains and handcuffs for an agonizing 26 days. Their dignity stripped away, they were paraded naked around the premises – a humiliating display meant to crush their spirits. Yet, their resilience in the face of adversity was remarkable, with one of the detainees courageously taking a stand against the ill-treatment, and joining forces with fellow inmates who suffered similar abuse.
Despite obtaining court orders for their release, the DSS defiantly disregarded the rule of law. Attempting to conduct a secret trial outside the court’s jurisdiction, they sought to maintain control over the detainees and further defy justice. However, the efforts of revolutionary comrades, the Take It Back movement, and other justice advocates stood firm, thwarting the DSS’s deceitful plans.
Moreover, a recent incident involving the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, sheds further light on the DSS’s disrespect for the rule of law. Following a court order for his remand at Ikoyi Prison in Lagos, the DSS blatantly fought against the prison commander’s attempts to enforce the court’s decision. This show of shame exemplifies the agency’s audacious disregard for the very institution they are tasked to uphold – the rule of law.
The lack of proper judicial oversight has fostered a culture of lawlessness within the DSS ranks. The agency operates with impunity, bypassing the judicial process, and demonstrating an utter disregard for court orders. This erosion of trust sows seeds of doubt in the public’s perception of the DSS and weakens the core values of democracy.
To safeguard the nation’s democratic principles, it is imperative to demand accountability from the DSS. Reforms that reinforce judicial oversight, prioritize human rights training for personnel, and establish independent complaint mechanisms are essential to restore public confidence in the agency.
In conclusion, the lawlessness of Nigeria’s DSS stands as a grave concern for the preservation of justice and democracy. Emeka Richmond’s and others’ harrowing experiences underscore the agency’s alarming abuse of power and contempt for the rule of law. It is high time for all Nigerians, regardless of background, to unite in the call for a reformed and responsible DSS – an agency that upholds the rule of law, respects court orders, and safeguards the very essence of democracy for a better and brighter Nigeria.
