Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed deep concern over reports that renowned Nigerian writer and academic, Prof. Okey Ndibe, was detained by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) upon his arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, yesterday.

According to reports, the United States-based professor was stopped by DSS operatives and held for several hours while officers allegedly awaited clearance from superior authorities before allowing him entry into the country.

The reports further indicate that this is not the first time he has been subjected to such treatment and that previous detentions ended with apologies from the agency, after it was established that there was no lawful basis for his continued restriction.

A statement released yesterday by the Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, warned: “If these reports are accurate, they raise troubling questions about the continued use of security watch lists, the apparent failure to update security databases, and the recurring harassment of citizens based on their exercise of constitutionally protected rights, including freedom of expression.

“Ndibe is a respected scholar, novelist and commentator whose writings and public interventions have contributed significantly to democratic discourse in Nigeria. Subjecting him to repeated detention without explanation, charge or due process not only violates his rights but also sends a chilling message to journalists, academics and other citizens who engage in legitimate criticism of government policies and actions,” RULAAC stated.

The centre reminds the DSS that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to personal liberty, freedom of movement, freedom of expression and protection from arbitrary detention.

“Security agencies are obligated to carry out their responsibilities within the framework of the law and in a manner consistent with democratic principles and respect for human rights,” it added.

RULAAC called on the DSS to immediately release Ndibe and publicly disclose the legal basis for his detention; provide a clear explanation for the circumstances that led to the latest incident; conduct an urgent review of its watch list and clearance procedures to prevent the recurrence of wrongful detentions; ensure that officers at ports of entry act in accordance with constitutional safeguards and international human rights standards; and establish transparent accountability mechanisms for addressing complaints arising from wrongful detention and harassment by security personnel.

It further urged the relevant oversight authorities, including the DSS and the National Assembly committees responsible for intelligence and security services, to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and take appropriate corrective measures.

Nwanguma stated: “Democracy thrives where citizens are free to express dissenting opinions without fear of intimidation or arbitrary treatment by state institutions. The professionalism and legitimacy of security agencies are strengthened—not weakened—when they operate transparently, lawfully and with respect for the rights and dignity of all persons.

“RULAAC will continue to monitor developments and calls on all authorities to uphold the rule of law and Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to fundamental human rights.”