DSS launch manhunt for journalist who exposed clash between Abba Kyari and Babagana Monguno

DEPARTMENT of State Security (DSS) officials have launched a manhunt for the journalist who broke the story about the ongoing feud between President Muhammadu Buhari's chief of staff Alhaji Abba Kyari and national security adviser Major General Babagana Monguno.

Last week, Premium Times journalist Samuel Ogundipe, broke an earth shattering story after he revealed the details of a leaked memo in which General Monguno criticised Alhaji Kyari's constant meddling in security matters. In the story, general Munguno told the military service chiefs to ignore any further directives from Alhaji Kyari, as he had no authority to issue such orders.

According to General Monguno, Alhaji Kyari's actions were undermining national security and in many instances, he did not even have the authority of President Buhari to issue such directives. Leaking such sensitive divisions within the heart of government is believed to have angered the DSS, who have subsequently launched a manhunt for Mr Ogundipe, who has long gone into hiding.

Apparently, the journalist fled following threats from operatives of the agency, who already laid siege to his house. Chidi Odinkalu, the former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, revealed that there are plans by the DSS to arrest Mr Ogundipe with a view to forcing him to disclose his source.

Confirming the development, Idris Akinbajo,  a senior member of Premium Times staff, said they were aware of the plan by the service but explained that the DSS had not formally invited the journalist for interrogation or questioning. He added that Mr Ogundipe would honour an invitation by the DSS whenever called upon to report at any of their facilities.