- DSS dismisses 115 operatives in internal reform to strengthen professionalism.
- DSS warns public against dismissed personnel impersonating active operatives.
- Gunmen attack Niger lawmaker’s convoy, leaving several people injured.
- Defence spokesman seeks media cooperation to counter negative narratives.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has dismissed 115 personnel in an ongoing cleanup exercise designed to strengthen integrity and professionalism within the security agency.
The dismissal, announced on the service’s official X account, was carried out over a period of time and is part of wider reforms to rid the agency of operatives found to have violated its ethics. The DSS advised the public to avoid dealing with anyone claiming to still work for the agency after being dismissed.
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The statement also warned Nigerians about individuals who parade themselves as active operatives, specifically mentioning two previously flagged persons, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin. The DSS encouraged Nigerians to request proper identification before engaging with anyone claiming to be an operative, adding that a full list of dismissed personnel has been uploaded to the agency’s official website for transparency.
Meanwhile, gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked the convoy of Jafaru Ali, a member of the House of Representatives representing Borgu and Agwara Federal Constituency of Niger State. The attack reportedly occurred around 1:00 p.m. at Kuble village on the Agwara–Babana road while he was travelling to meet constituents on development projects.
Witnesses said the attackers opened fire on the convoy, injuring several people, including security personnel attached to the lawmaker. The victims are currently receiving treatment, and soldiers have since been deployed to stabilise the area. Security agencies have yet to release an official statement on the incident.
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In a related development, the newly appointed Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Sumaila Uba, called for a closer working relationship between the military and the media. Uba emphasised the need for unified messaging to combat misinformation and promote stories highlighting the sacrifices of the armed forces.
He outlined four key priorities under his leadership: unity of purpose among security information units, timely dissemination of accurate information, digital innovation, and strengthened media relations. Uba said a rapid–response team will monitor emerging threats in the information space and tackle false narratives promptly.
