Nigerian author and columnist, Okey Ndibe, has confirmed his release by the Department of State Services (DSS) after being detained at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

Ndibe made the disclosure in a Facebook post on Tuesday, thanking friends, acquaintances and well-wishers who expressed concern following reports of his detention.

The writer said he was held by DSS operatives for more than three hours but described the officers who interacted with him as professional and courteous.

“I am so grateful for the expressions of concern by many friends, acquaintances and others over my detention earlier today by the DSS at Murtala Muhammed International Airport,” he wrote.

“The two agents who interacted with me were quite courteous throughout the three-plus hours of my detention. I’d like to confirm that I’ve been released.”

Ndibe said he received calls and messages from people across different parts of the world after news of the incident broke, though he was only able to respond to a few.

He assured supporters that he remained in good health and high spirits.

“In the coming days I’ll find time to return more calls. But I want all to know that I am fine and in excellent spirits. I treasure your messages and gestures of friendship,” he added.

The DSS has yet to publicly comment on the circumstances surrounding his detention.