The Department of State Services (DSS) has dismissed 115 of its officers as part of a broad internal reform aimed at sanitizing the agency and enforcing discipline among its ranks.
The move, which the Service described as part of its “ongoing efforts to uphold professionalism and integrity,” comes amid growing concerns over misconduct, corruption, and abuse of power within Nigeria’s security sector.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the DSS said the dismissals were not carried out all at once but over a period of time, following investigations and internal disciplinary procedures.
According to the Service, the decision was part of “broader efforts to rid the organisation of bad eggs” and strengthen public confidence in its operations.
Beyond announcing the dismissals, the DSS also issued a warning to the public about some of the sacked officers who are still posing as active personnel to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
“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 statement said.
The agency urged Nigerians to avoid any form of official or business dealings with such individuals, noting that their names and details have been published on the DSS official website.
“The public is advised to be cautious and report any suspicious activities or persons claiming to be DSS staff through the official communication channels of the Service,” the statement added.
The DSS, also known as the State Security Service (SSS), is Nigeria’s main domestic intelligence agency. It is responsible for gathering information on internal security threats, counterterrorism, and protecting top government officials, including the President and state governors.
Established in 1986 under the National Security Agencies Act, the DSS is one of three intelligence agencies under the Office of the National Security Adviser. The others are the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), which handles foreign intelligence, and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), which manages military intelligence.
Over the years, the DSS has been involved in major national security operations, including the fight against terrorism, kidnapping, and political violence. However, it has also faced criticism over alleged human rights abuses, political interference, and corruption among some of its officers.
The latest mass dismissal is seen as part of efforts by the agency’s leadership to restore discipline and improve public trust.
The DSS has been quietly carrying out internal reforms since 2023 under its current Director-General. These reforms are aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the Service.
Reactions to the DSS announcement have been mixed. While many Nigerians praised the agency for taking bold steps to cleanse its ranks, others expressed concern about the lack of transparency in how the dismissals were carried out.
Some civil society groups have called on the DSS to publish more details about the offences committed by the dismissed officers, to demonstrate accountability and discourage future misconduct.
The DSS has assured Nigerians that it remains committed to its constitutional duties of safeguarding national security and protecting citizens.
“The Service will continue to promote professionalism and integrity among its personnel,” the statement said, stressing that efforts are ongoing to strengthen internal oversight and staff welfare.
As the DSS continues its reform process, Nigerians are being urged to remain vigilant, verify the identities of anyone claiming to be an operative, and report suspicious behaviour to the nearest security office.
With the dismissal of 115 officers and the renewed push for integrity, the DSS appears to be sending a strong message that it will no longer tolerate indiscipline or corruption within its ranks.
