DSS Speaks on Walida’s Release

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the official release of Walida Abdulhadi, a teenage girl who was reportedly abducted by one of its operatives. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the DSS said the decision was taken at the instance of the Director-General of the State Security Service following the completion of findings […]

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the official release of Walida Abdulhadi, a teenage girl who was reportedly abducted by one of its operatives.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the DSS said the decision was taken at the instance of the Director-General of the State Security Service following the completion of findings by a joint investigation committee constituted to probe allegations surrounding Walida’s disappearance from her parents.

According to the Service, the inter-agency committee comprised officials from the Ministry of Women Affairs, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Muslim Lawyers Association (MULAN), and civil society organisations including the Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN).

The DSS disclosed that, as earlier assured, Walida was handed over to Jigawa State authorities at about 5:45pm on Wednesday, February 26.

She is to be accommodated in one of the state government’s facilities under the protection of security agencies, pending the conclusion of all legal processes related to the matter.

“The same transparency demonstrated during the joint investigation will be maintained as the legal process continues to its conclusion,” the statement said.

The statement was signed by Favour Dozie, Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, DSS National Headquarters, Abuja, and dated February 26, 2026.