The Department of State Services (DSS) has handed over Walida, a minor who was allegedly abducted and impregnated by a serving operative, to Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi.
The handover took place on Wednesday at the DSS headquarters in Abuja. Walida and her baby were received by the governor in the presence of several state officials and representatives of civil society organisations.
Among those present were the Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, the state’s Attorney-General, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, officials of the Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, members of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and other advocacy groups. However, Walida’s parents were not at the event, which lasted until about 10:40 p.m.
Speaking after the handover, Governor Namadi described Walida as a daughter of Jigawa State and assured that the state government would take responsibility for her safety and recovery. He said she would remain in the custody of the state government while investigations continue.
Addressing questions about her parents’ absence, the governor explained that taking her into state custody does not necessarily mean she will immediately return to Jigawa. He added that she would remain in Abuja for now and would be provided with adequate security.
The Director-General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, said the agency had kept Walida in custody since recovering her from the operative in January 2026. He confirmed that the officer involved is currently detained and would face consequences if found culpable.
Ajayi stated that the agency’s priority is Walida’s safety and future, noting that the investigation is being conducted in collaboration with other relevant bodies. He added that various groups were invited to ensure transparency in the process.
Walida reportedly went missing in November 2023 at the age of 16 in Hadejia, Jigawa State. Her disappearance deeply affected her family, with reports that her mother later died after suffering psychological trauma.
The case resurfaced on January 1, 2026, when her father received a call from a DSS officer who allegedly informed him that his daughter was with him in Abuja and had given birth. The officer reportedly asked the father to come to Abuja for discussions and indicated willingness to marry her.
After a petition was submitted to relevant authorities, the DSS arrested the officer over the allegations. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
