Political Activist and Public Affairs commentator, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its professionalism and vigilance in providing timely intelligence that continues to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security framework.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Okai praised the DSS for its proactive intelligence gathering and collaboration with sister security agencies, describing the Service as “a key player in safeguarding lives and property across the country.”
He cited the Service’s recent alert to the Nigerian Army over an alleged plan by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States as evidence of its commitment to national security.
“We have observed with satisfaction the level of professionalism and intelligence coordination demonstrated by the Department of State Services,” Okai said. “Their prompt alert on possible ISWAP attacks in Ondo and Kogi shows their commitment to their constitutional duty of preventing threats to internal security.”
However, Okai expressed concern that other security agencies often fail to act swiftly on the DSS’s intelligence reports, warned that such delays can result in avoidable loss of lives and property.
He recalled a similar incident in Yelwata, where the DSS had reportedly warned of an impending attack, but the alert was allegedly ignored, leading to tragic consequences.
Okai urged state governors to hold regular security meetings with military and paramilitary commanders in their domains, emphasizing that public reassurances must be matched with visible and coordinated action.
“The DSS remains a credible and professional intelligence agency that has earned the trust of Nigerians,” he said. “We call on the Army and other security outfits to take every DSS report seriously and act swiftly to prevent avoidable crises.”
He also appealed to the governors of Ondo and Kogi States to engage closely with security chiefs to strengthen preventive measures and reassure residents through decisive steps rather than rhetoric.
Okai reaffirmed his support for the DSS and other national security institutions, urging citizens to cooperate with them by providing credible information that could help curb insecurity across the country.
“I commend the DSS for their proactive approach to intelligence gathering and their consistent dedication to the protection of our nation,” he added. “With better inter-agency collaboration, Nigeria will overcome its current security challenges.”
