The Department of State Services (DSS) has broken its silence on the detention of journalist Zainab Sodiq, offering an official explanation hours after her arrest sparked widespread criticism and allegations of political persecution.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the agency’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS confirmed that Sodiq is currently being detained at its National Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the Service, Sodiq was intercepted on July 6, 2026, by officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Aviation Security (AVSEC) and DSS operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, while attempting to travel to Abuja with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), commonly known as a drone.
The DSS stated that the journalist allegedly failed to present an End User Certificate (EUC), a document required under regulations governing the acquisition and operation of drones in Nigeria.
The agency said Sodiq admitted she did not possess the required documentation when questioned by security officials.
Despite the alleged violation, the DSS said she was not prevented from travelling immediately. Instead, she was allowed to board her scheduled flight to Abuja because she had a prior engagement but was instructed to report on July 8 for the continuation of investigations.
According to the statement, the ongoing investigation is being conducted in line with directives issued by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), which empower security agencies to regulate the operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), including drones.
The Service said the regulations authorise it to impound drones and sanction individuals or organisations operating them without the necessary approvals.
Explaining the rationale behind the restrictions, the DSS cited growing domestic and global security concerns associated with drone operations, including risks relating to public safety, surveillance and privacy.
“The Service reaffirms its commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
The DSS’s explanation comes after human rights activist Omoyele Sowore alleged that Sodiq, who has covered his activities as a journalist, was arrested solely because of her work and was being unlawfully detained.
The activist also accused the DSS of attempting to intimidate journalists and suppress press freedom, allegations the agency did not address in its latest statement.
Shemariah Media notes that the DSS statement represents the agency’s official position on the matter. Questions raised by Sodiq’s supporters and legal representatives regarding the circumstances of her detention remain part of the broader public discussion, and further developments may emerge as the investigation continues.
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