According to Mike Ejiofor, former Director of the Department of State Service (DSS), there is no ongoing rivalry between the DSS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), despite rumours suggesting otherwise.
Speculations about a serious division between these two law enforcement agencies gained momentum after the DSS took control of the EFCC’s office in Lagos, located at No 15A Awolowo Road, a day after President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration.
During an appearance on Channels Television Sunrise Daily, Ejiofor clarified, “The truth is that the DSS considers the EFCC a sister agency, and there is no rivalry between them.”
He highlighted President Tinubu’s consistent emphasis on the importance of security agencies coordinating their efforts and avoiding conflicting objectives, as expressed in his early interactions with security agencies.
As the President of the National Institute for Security Studies, Ejiofor explained that the DSS’s responsibilities primarily involve counter-intelligence, internal security, counter-terrorism, surveillance, and investigating severe crimes against the state.
Ejiofor further asserted that any perceived rivalry between the DSS and EFCC would not affect the fair trial process for Abdulrasheed Bawa, who was recently suspended by the president.
He stated, “I believe the spokesperson issued a statement to that effect. I personally established the NSO (National Security Organization) at 15, Awolowo Road, which has been our headquarters. There has been correspondence between the EFCC and the DSS regarding their vacation of the premises because the DSS needs to use that place.”
“The DSS requested that the EFCC vacate, and the EFCC chairman appealed to the DG (Director General), so I don’t see any animosity.”
Ejiofor emphasized that the DSS’s primary duty is to investigate crimes against the state. He assured that a fair hearing for Bawa is guaranteed because, based on his knowledge, the DSS would always give the benefit of the doubt.
In summary, contrary to public opinion, the DSS only seeks the removal of the EFCC from their property, but beyond that, there is no conflict between the two agencies.
