Civil society organisations and some women’s groups have accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of obstructing an independent investigation into the alleged abduction of a teenager, Walida Abdulhadi, reportedly involving one of its personnel, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi.
The coalition, under the aegis of the Concerned Coalition for Walida Abdulhadi, includes the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) and Women in Da’awah (WID), among others.
The group told a news conference on Monday that the DSS cannot be an investigator, defender and final authority at the same time in a case involving one of its own officers.
Spokesperson of the coalition, Ustaz Yunus Salahudeen said strong institutions should not shy away from scrutiny but welcome it, adding that truth vindicates the innocent and exposes
Salahudeen lamented that Walida is allegedly being by the DSS at its headquarters, an institution directly linked to the allegation., adding that the Service cannot be a judge in a matter involving its staff.
He said the DSS’ actions taken so far had created the impression of a cover-up capable of influencing public opinion while court processes are still pending.
“We approach this matter from the standpoint of constitutionalism, humanity and justice. Our concern is not anchored in religious rivalry or sectarian sentiment. Rather, it is grounded in the fundamental principles that govern any civilised democratic society,” he said.
They told the DSS to allow due process to run its course so that the truth can come out through constitutional means, adding that justice must be pursued without fear or favour.
It called for the inclusion of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in the committee set up to review the matter, given its statutory responsibility in cases involving minors and trafficking.
The group accused the DSS of a shift in public discourse on Walida’s age, addinng that she was initially reported to be 16 but is now being presented as 22.
“Earlier reports, including by Premium Times, and consistent statements attributed to her father indicated that she was 16 at the time she allegedly left home. The difference between 16 and 22 is not cosmetic, it is legally decisive.
“If she was 16, the matter clearly falls under child protection laws and attracts heightened legal safeguards. If she is 22, the case is reframed as one involving an adult capable of independent decision-making.
“The apparent change in her age from 16 to 22 demands independent documentary verification through birth, school records or other lawful documentation. Age cannot be established through media declaration,” he said.
He warned that any real or perceived attempt to alter her age without transparent verification could undermine public confidence in the process.
Salahudeen said the case was a test of the country’s commitment to justice and the rule of law, adding that parental and guardianship rights are legally recognised and cannot be set aside except through due judicial process.
“Where a court of competent jurisdiction has issued directives, compliance is not discretionary. Obedience to court orders is the backbone of constitutional governance,” he added.
The coalition also warned that mishandling Walida’s matter could have consequences beyond the immediate parties involved in a religiously sensitive country like Nigeria.
