The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday accused leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as Shiites, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, of lying against it.
The Service denied diverting money meant for him and his wife while in custody.
Zakzaky, in an interview with Punch at the weekend, alleged that the DSS diverted N4 million monthly allowance meant for them while they were detained.
He further alleged they personally took care of own feeding and utilities during the period.
But Public Relations Officer of the Service, Dr Peter Afunanya, said it was a lie aimed at maligning the security agency.
Afunanya said in a WhatsApp message: “This is a complete falsehood spread by someone desirous of maligning a noble organisation like the DSS.
“The Service is completely guided by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) which governs its suspect handling rules.
“It is unfortunate someone like him chose to lie. Possible he lost complete memory about the facts and the truth.
“The DSS doesn’t maltreat suspects. While in India years back, he chose or preferred to be returned to the DSS custody.
“Why? Because according to him, he had better treatment. So, we will ignore him.
“Those who have issues before the court should face their cases and stop blaming the DSS.
“We respect the laws and will always be governed by the principles of rule of law.
“The DGSS, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, is a democrat who respects rules of engagement and democracy.”