Birnin Kebbi — A journalist with Authority newspaper, Mallam Shuaibu Zubair, has accused an officer of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kebbi State of assault and issuing death threats following a disagreement over an unpaid electricity bill.
The incident reportedly occurred when the journalist, along with other tenants, confronted the DSS officer over his incomplete payment of the monthly electricity bill for the shared apartment complex.
Zubair claims the officer, whose name has been withheld, paid only ₦4,000 out of the ₦5,000 he owed for his share of the electricity charges.
According to Zubair, the officer became enraged during the confrontation, slapping him multiple times in front of other tenants and issuing a chilling threat.
“He said, ‘You have received beating for nothing, and you will die for nothing. If I kill you, nothing will happen. The last thing you can do is to take me to the police station,’” Zubair recounted during a press briefing.
The journalist, who is now reportedly battling an eye injury from the assault, expressed fear for his safety. “I am afraid to live in the same house with him,” Zubair stated, adding that the officer’s actions have left him physically and emotionally distressed.
Witnesses Confirm Assault
Several witnesses corroborated Zubair’s account. A neighbor, Maryam Aminu, confirmed that the DSS officer slapped the journalist twice and attempted to strangle him before other tenants intervened. “We had to call for help to rescue him. The officer grabbed his shirt and tried to choke him,” Aminu said.
Another neighbor, Mallam Haliru Usman, stated that he was summoned by other tenants to help mediate the dispute. “I saw the DSS officer assaulting Zubair. I tried to encourage them to settle the matter amicably, but Zubair insisted on seeking legal redress,” Usman said.
Dispute Over Electricity Bills
The disagreement stemmed from the payment of a monthly electricity bill for the shared apartment. Each apartment is charged ₦2,500, and the DSS officer occupies two units, making his total contribution ₦5,000.
Other tenants reportedly discovered the shortfall after tallying contributions and approached the officer to address the issue.
Zubair claims he acted on behalf of other tenants when he confronted the officer, which led to the violent outburst.
Legal Action Initiated
In response to the incident, Zubair has filed a lawsuit against the DSS officer, accusing him of assault and issuing death threats. “This was an unprovoked attack,” Zubair stated. “I will not be intimidated or silenced. I am determined to seek justice.”
Calls for Accountability
The case has sparked public outcry, with some calling for the DSS to investigate the matter and hold the officer accountable. As of press time, the DSS has not released an official statement regarding the allegations.
Neighbors have pledged to testify in court if summoned, with Aminu and Usman both stating they are prepared to recount the incident truthfully.
The case highlights concerns about abuse of power and underscores the need for accountability within law enforcement agencies.
