Standoff Ensues as DSS Barricades EFCC Lagos Office, Fueling Rivalry over Ownership

In a recent development that has escalated an ongoing rivalry, operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) have taken over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office in Lagos, effectively blocking access for EFCC officials. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, has reignited the contentious debate surrounding the ownership of the building located in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Reliable sources from within both agencies have shed light on the long-standing dispute between the DSS and the EFCC over the rightful proprietorship of the contested office space. Reportedly, the DSS operatives stormed the premises at approximately 7:00 am, firmly asserting their claim to the facility despite attempts at dialogue between the two law enforcement bodies. An anonymous EFCC official confirmed the incident during a telephone interview, highlighting the administrative nature of the conflict.

“The issue of ownership has been an ongoing battle between us and the DSS,” the EFCC official disclosed. “The office was initially occupied by them before being handed over to us when the EFCC came into operation. While this dispute has simmered in the background for years, it has never escalated to this level of obstruction. We are puzzled as to why our officials are being denied access, especially considering the recent change in government.”

Echoing this sentiment, a DSS source emphasized their agency’s historical association with the office, stating, “The office was ours, and we have been entangled in a protracted struggle over it with the EFCC. They are well aware of this.”

Despite attempts to seek clarification and official statements from both agencies, spokespersons Wilson Uwujare of the EFCC and Dr Peter Afunaya of the DSS have remained silent, declining to respond to inquiries regarding this recent development.

The standoff at the EFCC Lagos office not only highlights the acrimonious relationship between the DSS and the EFCC but also underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the protracted dispute over ownership. As the two agencies grapple for control, the ramifications of this impasse on the fight against corruption and financial crimes remain uncertain.