DSS Clarifies Okey Ndibe's Airport Interaction Details

The Department of State Services (DSS) issued a statement clarifying that Professor Okey Ndibe was not arrested or detained at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on June 1, 2026. The DSS explained that Ndibe's interaction with their officials was part of a routine review process aimed at delisting individuals from a watchlist that dates back to the military era.

This review process is designed to ensure that citizens are not unduly embarrassed and to verify the travel history and current engagements of those on the watchlist. Ndibe was placed on the watchlist on January 29, 2013.

The DSS noted that the current Director-General initiated a review of old watchlist actions upon assuming office. The agency also mentioned that Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, was successfully delisted in May 2025 after spending a decade on the watchlist.

Ndibe acknowledged the courteous conduct of DSS personnel during the interaction.