- DSS Denies Arresting Evangelist Over Viral False Alarm Post
- Agency says the rumour was dangerous and aimed at misleading the public.
- DSS urges Nigerians to rely on verified security information only.
The Department of State Services on Wednesday dismissed a widely circulated report claiming it arrested an evangelist who allegedly sparked a false alarm about an attack on a Christian crusade in Nasarawa State.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Lagos East Senator, Tokunbo Abiru Celebrates Men on International Men’s Day
- Nathaniel Bassey Condemns Kwara, Kebbi Attacks
- 42 Countries Confirm 2026 World Cup Qualification As UEFA Sets Playoff Paths
EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement signed by its Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communication, Favour Dozie, the agency said it never invited, detained or questioned the cleric identified in the social media post. It described the allegation as misleading and capable of creating unnecessary tension at a time security efforts are ongoing in several parts of the country.
The Service noted that the false claim appeared designed to discredit its operations and provoke public distrust. It stressed that the evangelist was neither under investigation nor part of any engagement with the Service.
According to the DSS, confirmation from the cleric’s family also verified that he was not in its custody. The agency explained that the evangelist’s spouse, Elizabeth, who made the initial post, acknowledged during contact that she and her husband were at the Police Headquarters in Lafia when the rumour began spreading.
The DSS warned that misinformation of this nature could disrupt ongoing security operations, fuel unnecessary suspicion and complicate efforts to maintain peace. It urged the public to rely only on accurate and verified sources for security updates, stressing that disinformation poses a growing threat to national stability.
The agency appealed to citizens to avoid amplifying unverified claims and to support security institutions by prioritising credible information channels.
