DSS boss Oluwatosin Ajayi has ordered the release of businesswoman Chineze Ozoadibe and approved ₦10m compensation.
He also directed payouts for five others wrongfully detained, stressing accountability and due process.
The Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, has directed the release of Abuja-based businesswoman, Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe, who was wrongfully detained over alleged involvement in illegal oil bunkering. He also approved a ₦10 million compensation in her favour.
In addition, five other individuals who were unjustly arrested will share another ₦10 million as compensation.
A senior security source revealed that Mrs. Ozoadibe’s arrest happened during a crackdown on an oil bunkering network. She was transferred to the DSS by another security agency but later found not to have any connection with the crime. The source explained that after thorough investigations, the DSS concluded her arrest was coincidental, prompting the DG’s directive for her release and compensation.
The source further noted that under Ajayi’s leadership, the DSS has adopted a culture of acknowledging and correcting mistakes, including releasing innocent persons and compensating them. Citing past examples, the official recalled the case of a Jos-based businessman mistakenly shot by the DSS in 2016. Although a Federal High Court had awarded him ₦10 million in damages, it was only when Ajayi assumed office that the payment was made. The DSS boss went further by doubling the amount to ₦20 million and providing the victim with lifetime medical care.
According to the insider, Ajayi has emphasized professionalism and accountability since assuming office, reminding DSS personnel that while errors may occur, they must be addressed responsibly. To minimize wrongful arrests, he has directed the agency’s legal department to ensure strict adherence to due process and for investigating officers to carry out detailed checks before effecting any arrest.
