DSS Clarifies Okey Ndibe Not Arrested, Watchlist Review

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 interaction with DSS officials was part of a routine review process for individuals on the agency's watchlist, which dates back to the military era.

The current Director General of DSS initiated a review to ensure that citizens are not unduly embarrassed by their watchlist status. Ndibe was placed on the watchlist on January 29, 2013, and the review process aims to facilitate his final delisting.

The DSS noted that similar cases, such as that of Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, have been successfully resolved. Ndibe acknowledged the courteous conduct of DSS personnel during the interaction, which was aimed at ensuring compliance with human rights and the rule of law.