By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s secret police have summoned Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed for questioning over comments authorities say could inflame political tensions, according to people familiar with the development.
The Department of State Services (DSS) issued the invitation on Tuesday, citing what it described as “incendiary public statements” made by the politician during recent media appearances.
A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to comment publicly, said the agency considered some of Baba-Ahmed’s remarks “capable of provoking unrest” amid Nigeria’s already polarised political climate.
The DSS has not released an official statement, and details of the specific comments under scrutiny remain unclear.
Members of the Labour Party criticised the summons, calling it an attempt to silence dissent. Party officials insisted Baba-Ahmed had only spoken on issues of national concern and had not breached any laws.
“We view this as intimidation,” a party spokesperson said, adding that the party expected the DSS to act impartially.
Baba-Ahmed has been a central figure in Nigeria’s post-election debates, often challenging official narratives on governance, the judiciary, and electoral transparency. His interviews in recent weeks have generated intense reactions across the political spectrum.
Rights groups have previously raised concerns about the DSS’s handling of politically sensitive cases, urging the agency to protect free speech while maintaining national security.
It is not immediately clear when Baba-Ahmed will appear before the DSS or whether the agency intends to open a formal investigation. Analysts warn that the matter could heighten partisan tensions unless handled transparently.
