DSS Explains Why US-Based Nigerian Journalist Okey Ndibe Was Stopped at Lagos Airport

The Department of State Services (DSS) has explained the circumstances surrounding its interaction with renowned US-based Nigerian writer and journalist, Okey Ndibe, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, insisting that he was neither arrested nor detained.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the agency’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS said Ndibe was only engaged as part of an ongoing review of old Watch-List Actions (WLAs), some of which date back several years.

According to the service, the current Director-General had directed a review of outdated watchlist records to ensure that Nigerians are not unnecessarily inconvenienced or embarrassed due to legacy security listings. The agency stated that individuals previously placed on watchlists are routinely contacted during transit as part of a process that could lead to the downgrading and eventual removal of their names from the database.

The DSS disclosed that Ndibe had been on its watchlist since January 29, 2013, but said his case had already been reviewed and downgraded. It explained that the airport interaction was intended to complete the process of removing his details from the watchlist.

The agency further maintained that after a brief interaction with its officials, Ndibe was cleared and escorted, describing reports of his arrest as inaccurate. It also noted that the author acknowledged the professionalism and courtesy of the operatives who engaged with him.

The clarification followed widespread reports on Monday alleging that Ndibe had been detained for several hours after arriving in Nigeria from the United States, a development that drew reactions from civil society groups and media advocates.