DSS has reportedly detained US-based Nigerian author Okey Ndibe at Lagos airport upon arrival in Nigeria. His associate says he was held for hours without explanation

The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly detained US-based Nigerian novelist and journalist, Professor Okey Ndibe, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

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Ndibe was said to have been picked up on Monday morning upon his arrival in Nigeria.

The development was confirmed by his close associate and former Anambra State Commissioner for Information, C. Don Adinuba.

According to him, Ndibe was stopped by DSS operatives shortly after landing in Lagos.

He said the writer was held for several hours while waiting for clearance from senior security officials.

Adinuba expressed surprise over the detention, stating that Ndibe had not been active in Nigerian media for some time.

He added that the author has focused on academic work and writing abroad.

He also claimed that similar incidents had occurred in the past, though Ndibe was usually released after verification.

In a message shared while in detention, Ndibe said DSS officials were awaiting instructions before releasing him.

He described the delay as being due to clearance from senior officers.

Another journalist, Maxim Uzoatu, also confirmed the development in a statement.

He said Ndibe was being held despite having scheduled engagements in Nigeria.

The DSS has not issued an official statement explaining the reason for the detention at the time of filing this report.

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The situation has continued to generate concern among observers awaiting further clarification.