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SSS dismisses 115 operatives

The secret police said the move was in line with efforts to rid the agency of unwholesome elements and strengthen professional standards among its ranks.

• November 4, 2025
SSS Officers (Credit: Premium Times)
SSS Officers (Credit: Premium Times)

The State Security Service (SSS) has dismissed 115 of its personnel as part of what it described as ongoing internal reforms within the agency.

The secret police announced the mass dismissal via its official X handle on Tuesday night, saying the move was in line with efforts to rid the agency of unwholesome elements and strengthen professional standards among its ranks.

Although the SSS did not disclose specific reasons for the dismissals, it hinted that the affected officers were found wanting in conduct incompatible with the service’s ethics and integrity.

“As part of the ongoing reforms in the Department of State Services (DSS), the public is hereby informed that a total of 115 personnel have been dismissed over a period,” the agency said.

The statement also noted that the action followed earlier disclaimers issued against two former officers, identified as Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, who were accused of impersonating SSS operatives to defraud unsuspecting citizens.

“In addition to earlier disclaimers on the duo of Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, the service finds it necessary to warn citizens of the fraudulent activities of some of these persons still posing as DSS personnel,” the service added.

The agency cautioned the public against engaging with individuals claiming to be SSS officials without proper verification, stressing that some of those dismissed were still presenting themselves as serving operatives.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to desist from any official dealings with these individuals who have been dismissed by the Service,” it warned.

In a move seen as promoting transparency, the SSS also published the names of all 115 dismissed personnel on its official website, urging Nigerians to verify identities through the portal—dss.gov.ng/media/more/4.

The security agency has, in recent years, faced scrutiny over allegations of human rights violations, abuse of court orders, political bias, and corruption.

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