The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced the dismissal of one of its staff, Jaja Smith Otelemaba, who it said was involved in bribe taking from motorists during the performance of election duties in Ekiti State.
The DSS in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Peter Afunanya, said a picture of Jaja had surfaced on the Social media wherein he was presented as negotiating with a motorist for financial patronage.
“The fact is that when the news broke, the Service initiated a line of investigative actions. These include the search and identification of the said Officer; his withdrawal from the duty post and issuance of a Memo as applicable to his cadre and rank.
“In line with the Service’s disciplinary procedures, Jaja was tried in an Orderly Room and summarily dismissed. The Service’s staff are already aware how serious it abhors offences against discipline and that it is no respecter of persons and ranks.
“Jaja’s instant dismissal is in accordance with the DGSS’ avowed commitment to, among others, promote discipline in the Service. It may be noted that the DGSS’ stance on issues concerning discipline has continued to prove his intolerance for misconduct and discreditable behaviour,” the statement said.
The DSS noted that for avoidance of doubt, the Service condemns, in its entirety, the infamous act of Jaja even as it informed the public that he is no longer a member of the prestigious organization.
“The Service reaffirms its commitment to professionalism, excellence and the rule of law. The DSS, as usual, rededicates itself to the security of the ongoing electoral exercise and reassures the nation of its sustained transparency and accountability in dealing with citizens,” the statement said.
Innocent Odoh, Abuja
