Department of State Services has confirmed the arrest and detention of five security officers following a joint investigation into a major security breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, 2026.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the DSS said the probe was conducted in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Customs Service, and the Federal Ministry of Aviation.
The investigation reportedly uncovered serious security lapses linked to the alleged compromise of officers in connection with former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
According to the statement, the detained officers are:
Ayuba Yakubu (ASP) – Police
Murtala Inuwa – DSS
Najeeb Murtala (ASI) – NIS
Musa Adamu – Aviation Security (AVSEC)
Salihu Victor – AVSEC
The DSS disclosed that the officers “have all confessed to receiving bribes to facilitate unauthorized entry into Restricted Areas, to obstruct lawful security operation in an unprecedented manner.”
The agency further stated that the suspects have been handed over to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for prosecution.
In addition, the DSS noted that other officers from the Nigeria Immigration Service and Nigeria Customs Service, whose actions were deemed non-criminal but improper, would face disciplinary measures. These officers, the statement said, did not receive bribes but “abused their uniforms to facilitate unauthorized access” and would therefore be subjected to administrative sanctions.
Security analysts say the development underscores renewed efforts by authorities to strengthen safety protocols at the nation’s airports and clamp down on corruption within security agencies.
The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to safeguard critical national infrastructure and prevent future security breaches.