The Plateau State Government has strongly dismissed reports suggesting a rift with the Department of State Services (DSS), describing the security agency as its “most reliable partner” in the fight against insecurity.

In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Architect Samuel Jatau, the state condemned what it termed a “misleading” narrative circulating on social media, alleging that the DSS had seized weapons meant for the state-backed security outfit, Operation Rainbow.

“Reports on Facebook and other social media handles have a misleading story purporting that the Department of State Services (DSS) seized arms procured for the Plateau State neighbourhood watch – Operation Rainbow,” Jatau stated.

The government described the claim as false and malicious, emphasizing that the DSS had never acted in a manner that would undermine security efforts in the state.

“We wish to clearly state that this is far from the truth. At no time has the Department of State Services, even in error, stalled or undertaken any action to scuttle government efforts at fighting insecurity in Plateau State,” the SSG added.

He further praised the DSS for playing a pivotal role in peace-building initiatives: “The DSS has been a most reliable partner and has helped in several ways to assist the state in curbing insecurity.”

The government urged citizens to disregard the claims, which it said were designed to “cause disaffection and acrimony” between the state and the federal agency.

The statement comes in the wake of recent attacks by unidentified gunmen in parts of Plateau, which have heightened public scrutiny of local and federal security agencies.