DSS Arrests Senator Aliyu Gebi for Allegedly “Marketing Falsehood” to US, UK Embassies Against Nigeria

Operatives of Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency, the Department of State Services (DSS), have arrested a former federal lawmaker, Aliyu Gebi, over allegations of disseminating misleading security intelligence to foreign embassies operating in the country.

The development has drawn attention within diplomatic and security circles, amid concerns about the implications for Nigeria’s international reputation and foreign relations.

 

Ejes Gist News reports that the incident comes at a time when global partners are closely monitoring security developments across West Africa.

Sources familiar with the matter confirmed that Gebi, who served in the 7th National Assembly and later transitioned into private security consultancy, was taken into custody following weeks of surveillance of his communications and activities.

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He was reportedly arrested on April 3 and has since been granted administrative bail. However, he remains under investigation and is required to report periodically to DSS headquarters as inquiries continue.

 

Security officials allege that the former lawmaker circulated intelligence reports to several foreign missions that were later deemed inaccurate and capable of triggering unnecessary alarm.

According to multiple sources, the reports focused heavily on Nigeria’s aviation and broader security landscape, presenting what authorities described as an exaggerated risk outlook. Officials argue that such assessments, when unverified, can influence diplomatic decisions and international perception.

 

The alleged dissemination of the reports is said to have prompted reactions among international stakeholders, particularly within the aviation sector.

Industry sources indicated that Lufthansa temporarily adjusted some of its Nigeria-bound operations following the circulation of the intelligence. Similarly, British Airways was reported to have reviewed its flight schedules before opting against immediate changes.

Diplomatic sources also confirmed that several embassies initiated internal risk assessments after receiving the reports, with some considering precautionary measures before engagements with Nigerian authorities.

US Travel Advisory and Security Concerns

The situation coincided with a travel advisory issued by the United States Department of State, warning its citizens about security risks in parts of Nigeria.

The advisory highlighted concerns including kidnapping, armed robbery, and insurgent activities, particularly in states such as Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, and Rivers. It also advised non-essential personnel to consider departure and urged travellers to reassess plans to affected regions.

While it remains unclear whether the advisory was directly linked to the disputed intelligence, the timing has raised questions among policy analysts and security observers.

Nigerian Government Response

Nigerian authorities have rejected what they described as exaggerated portrayals of the country’s security environment. Officials maintain that although challenges persist, coordinated military and intelligence operations have led to measurable improvements in several regions.

Government representatives have also engaged foreign partners, urging reliance on verified intelligence and cautioning against actions that could undermine investor confidence, aviation traffic, and diplomatic ties.

A senior official familiar with the engagements stated that several embassies reconsidered initial plans after consultations with Nigerian authorities.

Ongoing Investigation

As of the time of filing this report, the DSS has not issued an official public statement detailing the circumstances of the arrest or the scope of the investigation.

Attempts to obtain comments from Gebi were unsuccessful. Security sources indicate that investigations remain active, with authorities examining possible networks and communication channels linked to the dissemination of the reports.

Analysts note that the case underscores the sensitivity of intelligence handling and the potential consequences of unverified security information on international relations, economic stability, and public confidence.