The Department of State Security (DSS) has come under criticism from Lawyers in Defence of Democracy, a group of legal practitioners, regarding the arrest and detention of suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
The group raised concerns about the apparent lack of similar action taken against former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Kingdom Okere, Convener of Lawyers in Defence of Democracy, expressed his viewpoint on Arise Television, stating that Emefiele was acting under presidential approval and that the responsibility should also fall on former President Buhari.
He said, “Whatever Emefiele did as CBN Governor had presidential approval. So, if they have anything against him, they should also know that it is traceable to former President Muhammadu Buhari and they should also being him to book so that they can defend themselves.”
Okere emphasized the need for the DSS to hold Buhari accountable.
Furthermore, Okere highlighted that during the search of Emefiele’s house, the DSS found only N300,000 (Nigerian naira), leading him to question the significance of such a small amount.
He questioned whether it was unreasonable for Emefiele, with his legitimate earnings, to possess N300,000 in his house.
Okere also mentioned that a license for a pump-action shotgun was found, but dismissed any future claims by the DSS about additional items, considering them as false allegations.
He criticized the DSS for targeting Emefiele without considering the role of the former president and raised doubts about the alleged discoveries in Emefiele’s residence.
He emphasized the importance of holding all relevant parties accountable and ensuring a fair and transparent investigation.
