HURIWA, Retired Justice Omolaye-Ajileye Praise DSS DG for N20m Compensation to Wrongfully Arrested Individuals

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and Professor Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye, a jurist and visiting professor at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), have applauded the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, for awarding N20 million in compensation to Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe and five others who were wrongfully arrested.
HURIWA highlighted this compensation as a positive demonstration of the DSS’ commitment to justice. The organization also pointed to recent legal successes under the DSS leadership, including victories in cases involving Professor Pat Utomi’s attempt to establish a shadow cabinet and the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore. These, HURIWA stated, reflect the DG’s strong belief in the rule of law.
Similarly, retired Justice Omolaye-Ajileye commended Mr. Ajayi for exhibiting exemplary leadership, accountability, and respect for human rights. He noted that these actions underscore the DSS’s dedication to transparency and upholding the rule of law.
“The award of N20 million in total compensation to these wrongfully detained individuals showcases Mr. Ajayi’s total dedication to rectifying mistakes, building public trust, and upholding justice,” said the retired judge.

“This action sets a positive precedent for other security agencies to follow and underscores the DSS’s commitment to
protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens,” the jurist noted.

According to HURIWA, “the decision to challenge Professor Pat Utomi’s plan to form a shadow cabinet in court, rather than resorting to unlawful arrest or detention, is a significant step towards entrenching democratic principles.”

In a statement by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA noted that the “DSS’ recourse to judicial interpretation marks a refreshing departure from the long-standing culture of arbitrary clampdowns on dissenting voices.

“By seeking judicial interpretation, the DSS has shown that law enforcement can safeguard internal security while still respecting constitutional freedom,” observed the NGO, adding, “this approach aligns with global best practices in democratic governance.”

On the new DSS culture of compensating persons wrongfully arrested, HURIWA noted, “These actions, the fourth that has become public knowledge, demonstrate that the DSS, under Mr. Ajayi, recognizes that mistakes are inevitable in security operations.

“However, what defines professionalism is the courage to admit errors and offer redress. We urge the DSS to codify these reforms into official practice directions so that the principles of compensation, accountability, and respect for due process become entrenched in the Service’s operations,” observed the NGO.

“The DSS has set a standard that others must follow; one where internal security is pursued without trampling on fundamental rights. If sustained, this new culture will enhance professionalism, boost public confidence, and consolidate Nigeria’s democratic values,” the group said.

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    MHCDI Spelling Bee Boosts Confidence, Literacy in FCT

    MHCDI Spelling Bee Boosts Confidence, Literacy in FCT

    The 2025 Inter-School Spelling Bee Competition, hosted by My Hero Community Development Initiative (MHCDI), has ended in Abuja, sparking renewed advocacy for enhanced investment in educational programs that foster literacy, self-confidence, and resilience among public school students.

    At the grand finale, Haiya Rahmatu Nusa K, Director of the Junior Secondary Schools Department at the FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), praised MHCDI for creating a vital platform that motivates and nurtures academic excellence in young learners.

    She noted that the competition, which unfolded in two phases and featured 270 students from nine junior secondary schools in the FCT, promoted “academic excellence, resilience, and love for learning” among participants.

    Rahmatu described the scholarships and prizes awarded to the winners as a priceless investment in the future of the students.

    “The award of one-year scholarships to the best three students from each school, as well as an additional scholarship year to the overall winner, reflects the generosity and vision of the sponsors,” she said.

    Government Secondary School (GSS) Garki emerged overall champion, winning N300,000 and a tablet, while GSS Wuse Zone 3 clinched second place with N200,000 and a tablet. The third position went to another participating school, with the winner receiving N150,000 and a tablet.

    She urged all participants to see themselves as winners, regardless of who took the top prizes. “By participating, you have challenged yourselves, gained new knowledge, and set a standard that others will aspire to,” she told the students.

    In her remarks, the Programme Director of MHCDI, Damilola Fagbohun, said the initiative was more than just a spelling competition but a celebration of knowledge, courage, and determination.

    She explained that the project began with in-school spelling sessions earlier in the year, where students discovered their strengths and built the confidence to compete at the inter-school level.

    “The competition is not just about words; it’s about building confidence, nurturing literacy, promoting healthy competition, and proving that our public school students are just as intelligent and deserving of opportunities as any other student anywhere in the world,” Fagbohun stated.

    She praised the support of teachers, parents, and partners, noting that their encouragement fuels the aspirations of young learners. “By virtue of being here today, every student is already a champion. You inspire us, you make us proud, and you remind us that the future of Nigeria is bright,” she added.

    The competition ended with scholarships, cash prizes, and tablets awarded to outstanding performers, while participating schools were celebrated for their courage and determination.

    The initiative was supported by partners including LaserCards, Kairos Hof, Kairos Hof Energy, and the Bank of Industry.

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    The 2025 Inter-School Spelling Bee Competition, hosted by My Hero Community Development Initiative (MHCDI), has ended in Abuja, sparking renewed advocacy for enhanced investment in educational programs that foster literacy,

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