Nigerian author and columnist Okey Ndibe has confirmed that he has been released by the Department of State Services following his brief detention at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Ndibe shared the update on his Facebook page on Tuesday, where he also expressed gratitude to friends, colleagues, and well wishers who reached out after reports of his detention became public.
According to him, he was held by DSS operatives for a little over three hours at the airport. He, however, noted that the officers he interacted with during the period maintained a professional and respectful attitude throughout the process.
“I am so grateful for the expressions of concern by many friends, acquaintances and others over my detention earlier today by the DSS at Murtala Muhammed International Airport,” he wrote.
He further confirmed his release, adding that the experience, though unsettling, was handled without hostility from the officers involved.
“I’d like to confirm that I’ve been released,” he stated, while acknowledging the courteous nature of the agents who engaged him during the detention.
Ndibe also revealed that the incident triggered calls and messages from several people across different parts of the world. While he was unable to respond to all of them immediately, he appreciated the concern shown.
He assured supporters that he is in good health and remains in good spirits following the experience.
“In the coming days I’ll find time to return more calls. But I want all to know that I am fine and in excellent spirits. I treasure your messages and gestures of friendship,” he added.
