Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) denies reports that it arrested or detained writer and academic Okey Ndibe at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on June 1, 2026. Multiple outlets report that public claims circulated alleging Ndibe was taken into DSS custody following an airport interaction. In its response, the DSS says Ndibe was not arrested and that the stop involved a routine security check tied to a watchlist. The Punch reports that the DSS describes the review as part of standard procedures to remove individuals from an active watchlist. According to the explanation given to journalists, Ndibe’s watchlist status has been in place since 2013. Separate reporting from The Punch also states that Ndibe himself confirms he was released following the incident at the airport. The DSS maintains that the interaction was related to the watchlist review rather than detention or arrest. The accounts therefore focus on whether he was held and the reason for the airport engagement, with the DSS and Ndibe’s confirmation aligning on the outcome while differing from initial allegations of arrest.