THE Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, has ordered the immediate release of an Abuja-based businesswoman, Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe, who was wrongfully arrested and detained over alleged involvement in illegal oil bunkering, News Point Nigeria gathered.
In addition, Ajayi approved ₦10 million compensation for Ozoadibe, while five other persons who were also arrested in error during the same operation will collectively receive another ₦10 million, bringing the total payout to ₦20 million.
According to a credible security source, Ozoadibe was arrested during a joint operation coordinated by another security agency targeting a suspected oil bunkering syndicate.
She was later handed over to the DSS for further investigation.
However, a thorough review by DSS operatives revealed that her arrest was purely coincidental, with no evidence linking her to the crime.
“During investigations, DSS operatives discovered that her arrest was a mistake. Upon review of the facts, the DG immediately ordered her release and ensured she was duly compensated,” the source disclosed.
The official explained that Ajayi’s decision reflects a new culture of professionalism and accountability within the Service since he assumed office.
“This is not the first time the DG is correcting wrongful detentions. You may recall the case of a Jos-based businessman who was mistakenly shot by DSS personnel in 2016.
“A Federal High Court awarded him ₦10 million in damages, but the Service did not honour it until Ajayi came on board. Not only did he pay the sum, he doubled it to ₦20 million and also approved free medical care for life for the victim,” the source recalled.
Since assuming office, Ajayi has consistently emphasized fairness, due process, and responsibility in security operations. He is said to have instructed DSS officers to be more painstaking in their investigations to avoid wrongful arrests.
“As a thoroughbred professional, Ajayi recognizes that even the best security agencies can sometimes make mistakes. That is why he directed officers to admit errors when they occur and take responsibility,” the insider revealed.
To institutionalise accountability, the DSS DG has reportedly instructed the Service’s legal department to strictly monitor compliance with due process in all cases.
“All investigation officers must now conduct detailed inquiries before making arrests, as part of efforts to reduce such errors in the future,” the source explained.
A security expert, Lukman Ibrahim told News Point Nigeria that Ajayi’s leadership style is gradually reshaping the Service’s image, reinforcing public trust, and signalling a more transparent and accountable era for the intelligence agency.