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A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Umar, has firmly refuted claims that he was arrested by the Department of State Services, following a recent visit by Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate.
The controversy, which gained traction on Tuesday, stemmed from a post by Obi, who alleged that the cleric was detained shortly after hosting him in Kaduna. He described the purported arrest as a worrying indication of democratic decline and shrinking space for free expression.
However, in a swift rebuttal conveyed through a viral video, Umar dismissed the narrative, insisting that the claims were inaccurate and misleading. According to him, there was no arrest or detention at any point.
“I am speaking today to correct a false report being circulated in some quarters. I was not detained by the DSS,” he said, setting the record straight.
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Clarifying further, the cleric explained that he was merely invited for questioning, a process he said he fully cooperated with before being allowed to leave without any hindrance. “I was invited for questioning. I cooperated fully and I was released. I am free. I am safe. And I am well,” he added.
Beyond addressing the allegation, Umar urged calm among his supporters and residents, cautioning against any form of unrest or unlawful reaction. He emphasised that loyalty must not be expressed through disorder or actions capable of undermining public peace.
In conclusion, he encouraged citizens to channel their grievances through lawful and democratic means, stressing that meaningful change lies in civic participation. “The answer is very simple: register, vote, and choose better leadership when the time comes,” he said.
