Kogi activist, Okai, commends DSS on proactive intelligence gathering

…tasks Military, others to act swiftly on security alerts

Kogi activist cum social commentator, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to national security through timely and credible intelligence gathering.

In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Okai said the DSS has continued to play a vital role in safeguarding lives and property by sharing actionable intelligence with sister security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, and Civil Defence Corps.

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, describing it as a demonstration of the DSS’s efficiency and dedication to national safety.

“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 despite the DSS’s timely warnings, other security agencies have not always shown adequate urgency in responding to such intelligence.

He recalled a previous incident in Yelwata, where a DSS advisory on a looming attack was allegedly ignored, leading to loss of lives and property.

The activist urged state governors to convene regular security meetings with military commanders and heads of other security agencies, stressing that public assurances must be backed by concrete action on the ground.

“The DSS remains a credible and professional intelligence agency that has earned the trust of Nigerians,” he noted.

“We call on the Army and other security outfits to take every DSS report seriously and act swiftly to prevent avoidable crises.”

Okai also appealed to the governors of Ondo and Kogi States to strengthen coordination with security chiefs to forestall attacks and reassure residents through visible preventive measures.

He reaffirmed his confidence in the DSS and other national security institutions, urging citizens to support them with credible information to combat insecurity.

“I commend the DSS for their proactive approach to intelligence gathering and consistent dedication to the protection of our nation. With better inter-agency collaboration, Nigeria will overcome its current security challenges,” Okai said.

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