Oluwatosin Ajayi, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), has ordered the release of Chineze Ozoadibe, an Abuja-based businesswoman who was wrongfully arrested over alleged involvement in illegal oil bunkering.
He also directed that she be paid N10 million as compensation.
In addition, five other persons who were similarly arrested in error are to share an additional N10 million, bringing the total payout to N20 million.
A credible security source confirmed that Ozoadibe was picked up during a joint operation targeting an oil bunkering syndicate.
She was transferred to the DSS by another security agency but was later found to have no link to the crime.
“During investigations, DSS operatives discovered that her arrest was purely coincidental. Upon review of the facts, the DG immediately ordered her release and ensured she was duly compensated,” the source explained.
The source further noted that the gesture reflects what has become a new culture within the Service since Ajayi assumed office.
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“This is not the first time the DG is correcting wrongful detentions. It has become a practice under his leadership. You may recall the case of a Jos-based businessman who was mistakenly shot by DSS personnel in 2016.
“A Federal High Court awarded him N10 million in damages, but the Service did not honour it until Ajayi came on board. Not only did he pay the sum, he doubled it to N20 million and also approved free medical care for life for the victim,” the official recalled.
The source added that Ajayi has consistently emphasized professionalism, accountability, and fairness within the Service, acknowledging that mistakes can occur but stressing the importance of corrective measures.
“As a thoroughbred professional, Ajayi recognizes that even the best security agencies sometimes make mistakes. That is why, on assumption of office, he directed officers to be painstaking in their operations.
“He told them to admit errors when they occur and take responsibility, which is why wrongfully detained persons are now being freed and compensated,” the source disclosed.
To further strengthen due process, the DSS DG has also instructed the Service’s legal department to ensure strict compliance with legal procedures in all cases.
According to the source, “All investigation officers must now conduct detailed inquiries before making arrests, as part of efforts to reduce such errors in the future.”
