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The Department of State Services (DSS) on Friday, November 28, reportedly invited Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former running mate to the 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, over comments perceived as inciting against the Nigerian state, a security source has disclosed.
Sources told security analyst Zagazola Makama that there have been growing concerns over the Baze University founder’s recent public remarks on various media platforms, particularly those relating to what he described as a “constitutional crisis.”
A few days ago, Baba-Ahmed appeared on national television, where he blamed the judiciary and the military for allowing the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. He was also quoted as saying the inauguration made it possible for the military “to look you in the face and call you ‘bloody fools,’” a comment the source described as highly troubling.
“His inflammatory comments carry undertones capable of heightening national tension, especially given the sensitivity of Nigeria’s current political climate. It is worrisome when you consider how similar narratives have fueled instability in countries like Guinea-Bissau and elsewhere,” the source said.
According to the source, the DSS is handling the matter with caution, stressing that the invitation “has nothing to do with politics” but is necessary because “the corporate existence of the nation could be threatened if such rhetoric is allowed to fester.”
The source further noted that Baba-Ahmed’s criticism of the judiciary and military for not stopping the inauguration of President Tinubu “leaves much to be desired,” adding that his description of government security efforts as a “joke” could stir public resentment and weaken trust in state institutions.
“These sessions are not punitive; they are preventive. They aim to clarify intent, contextualize the remarks, and prevent the emergence of narratives that could unintentionally fuel unrest,” the source added.
