“I was invited by DSS, not detained,” Sheikh Tijjani Umar counters Obi arrest claims, says he was questioned and released

A Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has dismissed reports suggesting he was arrested by security operatives, stating that he was only invited by the Department of State Services (DSS) for questioning and subsequently released.

Speaking in a video circulated on Tuesday, Umar addressed claims that emerged following comments by Peter Obi, who had suggested that the cleric was arrested after a visit to his residence in Kaduna on Sunday.

Umar clarified that his interaction with the DSS did not amount to detention. He said he fully cooperated with the security agency and was allowed to leave after the session.

“I was invited for questioning. I cooperated fully and was released,” he said, adding that he felt compelled to correct what he described as inaccurate reports.

He emphasized that he remains in good condition and urged residents of Kaduna State and his supporters to avoid actions that could heighten tension.

“I am free. I am well,” he said, while calling for calm. “No one should take the law into his hand. No one should create disorder in the name of loyalty.”

Umar, who is linked to the African Democratic Congress, also spoke on ongoing political developments involving former Kaduna State governor Nasir El Rufai, urging patience and adherence to due process.

He encouraged citizens to focus on civic participation as a long-term solution to political concerns, advising eligible voters to register and participate in elections.

Earlier, Obi had described the alleged arrest as troubling and raised concerns about civic freedoms in the country. However, Umar’s clarification and the DSS position indicating no confirmed arrest have added a different account to the incident.