JUST IN: DSS Summons Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed Over Alleged Inciting Remarks

The Department of State Services (DSS) has summoned Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed over comments perceived as inciting against the Nigerian state. Baba-Ahmed, the founder of Baze University and former running mate to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, was invited on Friday evening, according to security sources.

Sources revealed that the DSS has been monitoring Baba-Ahmed’s recent public statements, particularly those suggesting a “constitutional crisis” in Nigeria. On national television, he allegedly criticized the judiciary and the military for allowing the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashmir Shettima, and reportedly made statements that were interpreted as inciting toward the military.

Officials expressed concern that such remarks could heighten tensions amid Nigeria’s sensitive political climate. Citing parallels with instability in other countries, including Guinea-Bissau, the source emphasized that the DSS is treating the comments with caution to safeguard national stability rather than for political reasons. Baba-Ahmed’s description of efforts to improve national security as a “joke” was highlighted as potentially undermining public trust in state institutions.

The source stressed that the invitation is preventive, aimed at clarifying the intent and context of the remarks and preventing the spread of narratives that could fuel unrest. The DSS has yet to make an official statement on the matter.