DSS Threatens Legal Action Against AIT, Channels TV Over Alleged False Reports on Its Involvement in Lagos Assembly Crisis, Demands Retraction and Public Apology
The Department of State Services (DSS) has threatened legal action against Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Channels Television, alleging “false and malicious” reporting regarding the agency’s involvement in the Lagos State House of Assembly crisis on February 17, 2025.
In a letter dated February 17, 2025, and signed by DSS lawyer Adedeji Adedipe (SAN), the DSS claims the broadcasters misrepresented its role during the tense period surrounding concerns over the potential return of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. The DSS asserts its personnel were only present to support existing security forces at the Assembly complex and categorically denies engaging in any unlawful activities.
The letter, addressed to both AIT and Channels TV, states that the DSS’s presence was solely to maintain peace and order amidst the unfolding political developments. It emphasizes that its operatives acted within their mandate and in coordination with other security agencies present. The DSS claims the broadcast reports painted a false narrative, suggesting the agency was involved in actions beyond its lawful duties and potentially undermining the authority of the House.
The DSS is demanding an immediate and unconditional retraction of the reports deemed defamatory. Furthermore, the agency is demanding a public apology, prominently broadcast across all platforms of both AIT and Channels TV for three consecutive days. This apology, the DSS insists, must be given similar prominence as the original reports and clearly state the inaccuracies contained within the broadcasts.
The DSS has given the two media houses a seven-day ultimatum, starting from the date of the letter, to comply with these demands. Failure to comply within this timeframe, the letter warns, will result in civil and criminal legal action against the stations and their reporters under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act of 2015, as amended in 2024. The DSS argues that the broadcast reports have damaged its reputation and tarnished its image in the eyes of the public.
The letter explicitly states, “Your publication and/or broadcast has greatly injured the character of our client and tarnished and lowered its esteemed image in the eyes of the public.” The DSS also accuses the stations of violating the ethics of journalism by failing to ensure balanced reporting. They contend that the stations did not seek their perspective before airing the allegedly false reports, a fundamental principle of journalistic practice. The legal threat underscores the DSS’s determination to protect its reputation and ensure accurate reporting of its activities.
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