Prolonged DSS Custody of Nigerian Woman Sparks Human Rights Outcry and Calls for Accountability!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
The Department of State Services (DSS) is under intense scrutiny following revelations that a young Nigerian woman was allegedly held in government custody for over two years without formal charges. The case has ignited national debate over human rights, due process, and security agency accountability.
Walida Abdullahi, 22, from Hadejia Local Government Area in Jigawa State, went missing in 2023 while still a senior secondary school student. Her unexplained disappearance prompted months of frantic searches by her family. In early 2026, a phone call from an unidentified man enabled her father to confirm that Walida was alive.
According to family accounts and court filings, Walida spoke briefly during the call, revealing she had been away from home for more than two years. Subsequent investigations traced her to Abuja, where she was reportedly living under the control of a DSS operative, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi.
Media reports and legal documents allege that Walida was kept in government custody without charge, during which the operative is accused of exploiting his position to confine her and coercing her into a relationship that resulted in a child. While the DSS has not publicly detailed the detention, the agency confirmed the arrest of the implicated officer, stressing that such behaviour violates internal regulations and pledging a transparent investigation.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dutse branch, condemned the alleged abuse, describing it as a “gross abuse of power.” NBA spokesperson A.B. Umar called for full accountability, not only for the officer but also for anyone potentially complicit in Walida’s prolonged detention.
Legal experts and civil rights advocates warn that the case highlights systemic challenges surrounding arbitrary detention and due process in Nigeria. Observers argue it raises urgent questions about safeguards against abuse within the nation’s premier intelligence agency.
As the judicial process continues, the case is poised to test Nigeria’s legal protections against arbitrary detention and may drive renewed advocacy for reforms to safeguard fundamental citizens’ rights in security operations.
Sources:
Guardian Nigeria
PRNigeria
AllAfrica / Daily Trust
Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.
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