Kaduna Cleric Denies DSS Arrest After Hosting Peter Obi

Kaduna Cleric Denies DSS Arrest After Hosting Peter Obi

A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Umar, has dismissed claims that he was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) following a visit by former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The clarification comes amid widespread reports suggesting that the cleric was detained shortly after hosting the Labour Party figure in Kaduna.

In a video message circulating online, Umar refuted the allegations, stressing that he was never arrested or detained, but only invited for questioning by security operatives.

“I come today to correct a false report being circulated in some quarters. I was not detained by the DSS. I was invited for questioning. I cooperated fully, and I was released. I am free, safe and well,” he said.

Providing further clarification, the cleric explained that he honoured the DSS invitation without resistance and was allowed to leave shortly after the interaction. Sources familiar with the situation noted that such invitations are not unusual, particularly following engagements involving high-profile political figures, and may form part of routine security procedures. As of the time of filing this report, the DSS has not issued any official statement regarding the development.

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Amid the controversy, Umar urged his followers and residents of Kaduna State to remain calm and law-abiding. He cautioned against any action capable of disrupting public peace, stressing that no situation should push citizens into taking the law into their own hands or creating disorder in the name of loyalty.

The cleric also touched on broader political developments, calling for patience in legal matters involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. He encouraged Nigerians to remain engaged in the democratic process, emphasizing that elections remain the most effective way to achieve political change.

The development follows an earlier claim by Obi, who raised concerns in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, suggesting that the cleric had been picked up by security agents shortly after hosting him. The situation has since sparked conversations around freedom of association, political tolerance, and the role of security agencies in Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.

Kaduna Cleric Denies DSS Arrest After Hosting Peter Obi