Activist hails DSS boss for upholding rule of law

Austin Okai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, has praised the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Ajayi, for enhancing professionalism and adherence to the rule of law. In a statement, Okai attributed this to Ajayi's focus on intelligence gathering, discreet operations, and collaboration with other security agencies.

Okai noted that this approach has strengthened the DSS's ability to identify and respond to security threats before they escalate. He lauded Ajayi as a "thoroughbred professional security strategist" and highlighted the DSS's strengthened cooperation with the military, police, and international partners in addressing security challenges, particularly cross-border crimes and emerging threats.

Okai also commented on the increased use of technology in security operations, emphasizing its importance in tackling digital threats, organized crime, and attacks on critical infrastructure. On human rights, Okai commended Ajayi for his emphasis on following legal procedures during operations, earning him recognition nationally and internationally.

He cautioned against political interference in security agencies, advocating for a leadership that understands the sensitivity of intelligence gathering. Ajayi, a career intelligence officer, assumed his current role in August 2024, succeeding Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Okai called for continued institutional reforms to strengthen public confidence in the DSS while enabling it to effectively carry out its responsibilities.