CLEARING THE AIR: DSS Refutes Office Blockade in Lagos, Emphasizes Collaboration with EFCC
In response to recent reports suggesting that Department of State Services (DSS) personnel prevented operatives of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) from entering its office in Lagos, the DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, has firmly refuted these claims. Afunanya clarified that the DSS was simply occupying its own facility to carry out an ongoing operation.Speaking to our correspondent via WhatsApp on Tuesday, Afunanya stated, “It is important to correct the misinformation that the DSS barricaded the EFCC from accessing its office. This is categorically false. The DSS is merely operating from its own facility, where it fulfills its official and statutory responsibilities.”Furthermore, Afunanya addressed the speculation surrounding the ownership of No 15A Awolowo Road, emphasizing that there is no controversy in this matter, contrary to media insinuations. He challenged the notion that the EFCC is contesting the building’s ownership, stating, “I would be surprised if they are contesting it. Awolowo Road was the former headquarters of the National Security Organization (NSO), and the SSS/DSS originated from there. This is common knowledge and a historical fact that can be verified.”While debunking allegations of rivalry between the DSS and the EFCC, Afunanya emphasized the cooperative relationship between the two agencies. He firmly stated, “There is no rivalry between the DSS and the EFCC. Please refrain from creating imaginary conflicts. They are both formidable partners working in harmony for the betterment of our nation. Dismiss any falsehoods regarding a fight between us.”As the controversy surrounding access to the DSS office in Lagos continues, the DSS spokesperson’s clarifications shed light on the situation and aim to dispel any misrepresentations or misunderstandings.