A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Umar, has denied reports that he was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) after hosting former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
In a video that circulated online, Umar clarified that he was only invited for questioning and was neither detained nor harmed. According to him, he cooperated fully with the authorities and was released shortly after.
“I want to correct the false reports going around. I was not detained by the DSS. I was invited for questioning, and after that, I was allowed to go. I am free, safe, and in good condition,” he said.
He also urged his followers and residents to remain calm and avoid taking matters into their own hands, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and order.
“No one should create unrest in the name of loyalty. Let’s stay peaceful and law-abiding,” he added.
Umar encouraged citizens to express their concerns through democratic means, particularly by participating in elections.
“The solution is simple—register, vote, and choose better leaders when the time comes,” he said.
Earlier, Peter Obi had raised concerns, claiming the cleric was arrested shortly after hosting him in Kaduna. He described the situation as troubling and warned against actions that could threaten freedom of speech and weaken democratic values.
Obi called on authorities to respect the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights, noting that democracy thrives on freedom of expression and fairness.
The situation has sparked mixed reactions, with many questioning whether the incident was a case of misinformation or a reflection of deeper political tensions.
