“Ahmad Isn’t a Tailor, Can’t Even Use a Sewing Machine,” Says Family of Man Arrested by DSS for Allegedly Producing Russian Flag

The family of 21-year-old Ahmad Yusuf Muhammad, recently arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kano, has strongly refuted the allegations against him. Ahmad is among several individuals accused of mass-producing Russian flags in the state, a charge his family insists is baseless.

In a statement shared with Daily Trust, Ahmad’s brother, Nasiru Yusuf Muhammad, expressed disbelief over the arrest, asserting that Ahmad has never been a tailor and has no experience with a sewing machine.

“He is my biological brother, and the claim that he was sewing Russian flags is completely unfounded,” Nasiru stated. “Ahmad has never been involved in tailoring. In fact, he doesn’t even know how to use a sewing machine.”

Nasiru explained that Ahmad is involved in the family’s business of recycling used water sachets and has no connection to the alleged production of flags. He further revealed that the sewing machine purportedly linked to Ahmad was not found in their home but at a neighbor’s house, whose owner has since fled.

The DSS had earlier announced on its official X (formerly Twitter) account that it had apprehended several tailors in Kano for manufacturing Russian flags, with some sponsors also under investigation.

However, Ahmad’s family believes his arrest may have been a result of mistaken identity or coercion under duress. Nasiru suggested that his brother might have made self-incriminating statements due to fear or trauma during the arrest.

“We urge the security agencies and relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this matter and ensure justice is served,” Nasiru pleaded. “Ahmad is innocent of the charges against him, and we request his immediate release.”