Oluwatosin Ajayi, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), has outlined a series of reforms aimed at improving accountability and restoring public confidence in Nigeria's security apparatus. In an exclusive interview with senior editors, Ajayi, who recently marked two years in office, discussed the agency's approach to tackling terrorism and insurgency while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rule of law.

Ajayi, who has dedicated 36 years to the DSS, shared insights into the motivations behind terrorism in Nigeria and the challenges faced in combating these threats. He underscored the need for a fundamental shift in law enforcement strategies, advocating for a more humane approach that respects human rights and prioritizes collaboration with other security agencies and international partners.

Reflecting on the agency's historical reputation for arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial actions, Ajayi stated that significant changes have been implemented since he took over leadership. He emphasized the importance of separating civil matters from criminal ones, a shift that has led to improved handling of cases involving journalists and civil society organizations. Ajayi noted that under his watch, no journalist has been victimized, and any misunderstandings have been addressed through dialogue rather than force.

The DSS has also adopted a proactive stance in addressing past mistakes, including compensating victims of wrongful actions. Ajayi revealed that the agency has paid approximately N300 million in compensation to individuals wrongfully detained or harmed during operations. He cited specific cases, such as a businesswoman wrongfully arrested during an operation and a man mistakenly shot, both of whom received financial restitution and support to rebuild their lives.

Ajayi's leadership has been characterized by a commitment to transparency and accountability. He has encouraged a culture of admitting errors and seeking restitution, contrasting sharply with previous practices that often ignored victims' rights. This approach, he argues, is essential for healing and restoring trust between the DSS and the public.

In addition to addressing individual cases, Ajayi has focused on broader reforms within the agency. He outlined five key areas of reform: law enforcement, synergy with other agencies, accountability, respect for human rights, and infrastructural improvements to enhance operational efficiency. These reforms aim to create a more effective and responsive security service that prioritizes the protection of citizens' rights.

As the DSS continues to navigate Nigeria's complex security landscape, Ajayi's commitment to reform and accountability represents a significant shift in the agency's approach. By fostering a cooperative relationship with the media and civil society, he hopes to build a more transparent and trustworthy security environment for all Nigerians.