We never arrested Chido Onumah - DSS
- The leadership of the Department of State Services have denied reports that its official arrested Chido Onumah
- DSS said Onumah was spotted wearing a t-shirt with an inciting inscription and was called to order
- The secret service said it only engaged in an interaction with the activist and author of 'We Are All Biafrans'
The Department of State Security Services (DSS) has denied claims that its officials arrested Nigerian activist and author of 'We are all Biafrans', Chido Onumah.
The DSS on Monday, September 30, said Onumah was never arrested by the service but was rather engaged in an interaction during which an act of his capable of undermining public order and national security was explained to him.
In a statement signed by the public relations officer of the DSS, Peter Afunanya, the service upon Onumah's arrival discovered that the activist wore a t-shirt with "WE ARE ALL BIAFRANS" inscription on it.
Afunanya said the service with credible intelligence that Onumah might be a subject of mob attack if allowed to go into town in the same cloth invited him (Onumah) and drew his attention to the implications of wearing the t-shirt.
"It was strongly believed that an attack on Onumah would have sparked ethnoreligious reprisals with dire consequences for law and order and public safety in the country," Afunanya said.
He also explained that Onumah who understood the issues raised by the service pledged not to engage in activities that may cause disaffection in Abuja and the country at large.
Afunanya said Onumah subsequently removed the t-shirt with the inscription and agreed not to use it.
"The interaction between Onumah and the Service held in a convivial atmosphere. He appreciated the courtesies extended to him. Afterwards, the Service arranged for him to go back to his accommodation in town," Afunanya said.
"It is hoped that this clarification has dispelled the erroneous claims and reportage that he was arrested," he added.
He said the DSS acted within the confines of its mandate and only carried out its routine security duty that could have been discharged by a similar agency in any part of the world.
"It is not out of place for concerned security agencies to have sought clarification from a traveller concerning a subject of security interest."
"The DSS reaffirms its avowed commitment to the rule of law and protection of citizens and national critical assets," he concluded.
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Onumah had said he was told by the DSS that his arrest was connected with the 'We Are All Biafrans' t-shirt he wore on arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The activist also said he was released after five hours of being held by operatives of the secret Police at the airport.
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Source: Legit.ng
