Aliyu Gebi, a Nigerian politician and security consultant, has been arrested by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) over allegations of supplying false intelligence to foreign embassies in Nigeria.
He was reportedly arrested on April 3 and has since been granted bail, although investigations into the matter are still ongoing.
According to security sources, the intelligence allegedly provided by Gebi created panic among foreign missions and contributed to heightened diplomatic concerns. It was also claimed that the report influenced actions by some international organisations, including the cancellation of certain flights to Nigeria by foreign airlines.
Sources further indicated that the same intelligence may have played a role in the recent travel advisory issued by the United States, which warned its citizens about security risks in Nigeria and authorised the departure of non-essential embassy staff.
Although the exact content of the intelligence report has not been made public, officials said it generated significant tension between Nigeria and its international partners before diplomatic engagements helped to ease concerns.
Despite ongoing security challenges in parts of the country, the Nigerian government has rejected claims that the situation has deteriorated to the level portrayed in foreign advisories, maintaining that efforts are being made to improve safety nationwide.
Meanwhile, Gebi is said to be cooperating with authorities and has been reporting to the SSS headquarters as investigations continue. He is expected to face court charges once the probe is concluded.
