Drama surrounding former Anambra Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, took a surprising twist today as prominent Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, publicly refuted claims that he was arrested and detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after hosting Obi in Kaduna last Sunday.
The controversy erupted earlier today when Peter Obi took to X (formerly Twitter) to allege that the revered religious leader was picked up by security agents hours after their meeting on March 22. In his widely circulated post, Obi described the reported arrest as “a troubling sign of democratic backsliding” and a threat to freedom of speech and political association in Nigeria.
However, Sheikh Ahmad Umar himself has now set the record straight. In a video statement that went viral within hours of Obi’s claim, the cleric calmly denied being arrested or mistreated by any security agency.
“I am speaking 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. I am safe. And I am well,” Umar declared.
The cleric further appealed for calm among his followers and residents of Kaduna State, warning against any form of unrest or self-help in reaction to the circulating rumours.
“No one should take the law into his hands. No one should create disorder in the name of loyalty,” he said, stressing the need to maintain peace and order in the state.
Instead of protests or violence, Sheikh Umar urged Nigerians dissatisfied with the current political situation to embrace democratic channels.
“The answer is very simple: register, vote, and choose better leadership when the time comes,” the cleric advised.
The development has sparked mixed reactions online, with some users praising the cleric for his maturity and commitment to peace, while others continue to question the timing and motive behind the alleged invitation for questioning, especially coming so soon after his interaction with Peter Obi.
As of press time, neither the DSS nor Peter Obi’s camp has issued further statements on the matter.
This latest episode adds to the growing conversation around political expression, security agencies’ role, and religious leaders’ involvement in Nigeria’s political space ahead of future elections.
This story will be updated as more details emerge.