The State Security Service on Saturday night said without evidence that some of its “disloyal staff” are plotting with some persons and groups to launch “campaigns of calumny” and “subversive aims” against Bola Tinubu’s government over the suspension and investigation of ousted central bank chief Godwin Emefiele.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson Peter Afunanya on Saturday night, the secret police admitted it promptly activated measures to contain the purported anti-democratic scheme.

Mr Afunanya said his agency “is mindful of orchestrations to infiltrate its fold for the purpose of using disloyal staff for subversive aims,” warning “the plotters to desist forthwith from their plans.” 

“This is more so that the arrowheads are already under watch and will be apprehended when and if it becomes necessary,” he added. 

According to the SSS, the purported pro-Emefiele groups intend to gather at different points in Abuja and Lagos in the coming week with placards depicting the service and the Tinubu administration in a bad light “as well as calling for the immediate release of Emefiele.” 

A spokesman for Mr Emefiele did not return a request seeking comments about the SSS’ allegation, which is not unusual for the agency that has a longstanding reputation for repressive measures.

Mr Tinubu last week suspended Mr Emefiele, ordering investigations into his leadership of the apex bank. 

Mr Emefiele, 61, assumed office on June 4, 2014, following the controversial dismissal of his predecessor Lamido Sanusi by former President Goodluck Jonathan. He was confirmed for a second term of five years by President Muhammadu Buhari in June 2019, which will expire by June 2024.

The former central bank chief has remained in custody since his arrest by the SSS, with his family and lawyers pushing for access to him. 

The SSS, in its statement today, said it had been granting access to Mr Emefiele since he was arrested, dismissing the court order procured by his family towards his safety in custody as unnecessary.