DSS denies arresting Chido Onumah

The Department of State Services (DSS) has debunked reports claiming that its operatives arrested writer Chido Onumah.

Public Relations Officer of the DSS, Peter Afunanya in a statement on Monday made some clarifications on the matter saying that Onumah was “rather engaged in an interaction during which an act of him being capable of undermining public order and national security was explained to him.”

The DSS in the statement noted that on his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on 29th September 2019, it was discovered that Onumah wore a T-shirt with WE ARE ALL BIAFRANS inscription on it.

“With credible intelligence that he might be a subject of mob attack if allowed to go into town in the same cloth, the Service invited him and drew his attention to the implications of his probable (un)intended action.

“It was strongly believed that an attack on Onumah would have sparked ethnoreligious reprisals with dire consequences for law and order and public safety in the country. He understood the issues and pledged not to engage in activities that may cause disaffection in Abuja and the country at large.

“He subsequently removed the cloth with the inciting symbols and inscriptions and agreed not to use it.

The interaction between Onumah and the Service held in a convivial atmosphere. He appreciated the courtesies extended to him. Afterwards, the Service arranged for him to go back to his accommodation in town,” the DSS said.

The Service also expressed hope that this clarification has dispelled the erroneous claims and reportage that he was arrested. The Service said that it acted within the confines of its mandate and only carried out its routine security duty that could have been discharged by a similar agency in any part of the world.

“It is not out of place for concerned security agencies to have sought clarification from a traveller concerning a subject of security interest,” the statement added.

The DSS also reaffirmed its avowed commitment to the rule of law and protection of citizens and national critical assets.