DSS confirms hands over of Walida Ibrahim to Jigawa State Government

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the release of a young girl at the centre of a disappearance case to the Jigawa State Government, led by Governor Umar Namadi, following the conclusion of a joint investigation into the matter.

In a statement issued on Thursday, by Favour Dozie Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, the  DSS said the decision to transfer custody was approved by the Director-General of the State Security Service after findings were completed by an inter-agency investigative committee.

The committee comprised representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Muslim Lawyers Association (MULAN), as well as civil society groups including the Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN).

According to the DSS, the girl was formally handed over to Jigawa State authorities at about 5:45 p.m. on February 26, 2026. She is expected to be accommodated in a government facility under the protection of security agencies pending the conclusion of ongoing legal proceedings.

The agency reiterated its commitment to transparency, noting that the same level of openness demonstrated during the investigation would be maintained throughout the legal process.

The DSS also assured the public that due process would be followed until all litigations related to the case are fully resolved.