DSS Denies Arrest of Okey Ndibe, Says Airport Interaction Was for Watchlist Delisting Process

The Department of State Services (DSS) has refuted claims that it arrested Professor Okey Ndibe at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on June 1. In a statement, the agency clarified that the interaction was a routine procedure for delisting Ndibe from a watchlist.

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The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby clarifies that, it did not arrest or detain Prof Okey Ndibe at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on June 1, 2026 or any other place on that date for that matter.

The DSS explained that the current Director-General initiated a review of old Watch-List Actions (WLAs) to prevent undue embarrassment to citizens. Individuals on watchlists who are in transit are routinely interfaced with as part of a process that can lead to their removal.

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This, being a precursor to a final delisting in accordance with international best practices.

According to the DSS, Professor Ndibe had been on the watchlist since January 29, 2013. The agency stated that his case has since been reviewed and downgraded, and the airport interaction was aimed at completing his delisting. The DSS noted that Ndibe himself acknowledged the professional and courteous conduct of the operatives involved.

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Prof Ndibe has been on Watchlist since January 29, 2013. Meanwhile, his case has been reviewed and downgraded. Thus, the interface with him at the airport, was geared towards the final delisting of his details from the Action.

The agency reiterated its commitment to treating all Nigerians fairly and in accordance with the law, urging those affected by watchlist actions to contact its National Headquarters to facilitate the review process.

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even on his Facebook post, he referenced the professional, courteous and decorous conduct of Service operatives, who continue to scale their respect for the rule of law and human rights under the new Leadership.