DSS Reacts to Arrest of Operative Over Alleged Abduction and Abuse of Minor

The Department of State Services (DSS) has officially addressed public reports alleging that one of its operatives was involved in the abduction and sexual abuse of a minor in Jigawa State.

The reaction follows a ruling by a Magistrate Court sitting in Hadejia, Jigawa State, which ordered the arrest and investigation of a DSS staff member accused of abducting a 16-year-old girl, unlawfully detaining her, and coercing her into changing her religious faith.

Background of the Allegations

The legal action originated from a formal petition submitted to the court by a legal practitioner, Gamji Lawchain, who represented the father of the victim, identified as Walida Ibrahim.

According to the petition, the DSS operative allegedly abducted the teenage girl more than two years ago. It was further claimed that she was held in unlawful custody, sexually exploited over an extended period, and compelled to abandon her religion and adopt another faith without the knowledge or consent of her parents.

The petition also stated that Walida reportedly gave birth while still under the legal age, raising serious concerns about child protection violations and abuse of authority.

Calls for Accountability and Justice

The petitioners strongly criticized what they described as a gross misuse of official power. They demanded the immediate suspension, arrest, and prosecution of the accused operative. In addition, they called for an independent investigation into the DSS facility located at Karmajji, where part of the alleged abuse was said to have occurred.

The legal representatives emphasized the emotional and psychological toll the incident had on Walida’s family. They revealed that the prolonged trauma and distress reportedly contributed to the death of the girl’s mother, further intensifying calls for justice and transparency.

DSS Confirms Investigation, Clarifies Identity

In a public statement issued on January 9, 2026, the DSS confirmed that the allegations are currently under investigation.

The statement was signed by Favour Dozie, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications at the DSS National Headquarters. She clarified a key detail in the petition, stating that the individual named Ifeanyi Festus does not exist in the agency’s employment records.

However, the DSS confirmed that an active operative identified as Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi has been arrested in connection with the case.

According to the DSS, Onyewuenyi is suspected of forcefully converting and marrying the minor, identified as Walida Abdulhadi, and is presently undergoing investigation.

DSS Condemns Alleged Conduct

The agency emphasized that the alleged actions are a clear violation of its internal regulations and code of conduct. The DSS reassured the public that it does not tolerate misconduct or abuse of office by its personnel.

The statement concluded by assuring Nigerians that the investigation would be thorough and that the outcome would be made public once concluded.