Abuja – The Department of State Services (DSS) has summoned Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former running mate to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over comments perceived as inciting against the Nigerian state.
Baba-Ahmed, founder of Baze University, was invited Friday evening, a security source told Daily Trust. The official said the DSS had been monitoring his recent public statements, particularly those suggesting a “constitutional crisis” in Nigeria.
“A few days ago, Baba-Ahmed appeared on national television, blaming the judiciary and the military for allowing the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima,” the source said. “He even went so far as to incite the military, claiming the swearing-in justified calling them ‘bloody fools’.”
The source explained that the secret police considered his remarks as having the potential to heighten national tension amid Nigeria’s sensitive political climate. “It is disturbing, especially given how similar narratives have fueled instability in other countries, such as Guinea-Bissau,” the source added.
Officials emphasized that the invitation was not punitive but preventive, aimed at clarifying intent, contextualizing remarks, and curbing narratives that could unintentionally provoke unrest.
“The complacency by the judiciary and military in not preventing the inauguration, as he described it, leaves much to be desired.”
“Such sessions are focused on protecting the nation’s corporate existence and maintaining public trust in state institutions,” the source said.
