Ogona Anita
The Department of State Services (DSS) has invited the founder of Baze University, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, over public statements authorities consider capable of inciting tension against the Nigerian state.
According to the source, the DSS became concerned following Baba-Ahmed’s recent appearances on national media, where he repeatedly alleged that Nigeria was facing a “constitutional crisis.”
“A few days ago, he went on national television accusing the judiciary and the military of enabling the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima,” the source said. “He even suggested that the military was emboldened to call citizens ‘bloody fools’ because the inauguration was allowed to proceed.”
Another security official described the senator’s comments as “inflammatory,” warning that such rhetoric could escalate political tension, especially given the country’s fragile atmosphere.
The source added that similar narratives had contributed to unrest in countries like Guinea-Bissau, stressing the need for caution.
“This invitation has nothing to do with politics,” the official noted. “It’s about protecting the corporate existence of Nigeria. Statements that appear to undermine institutions or ridicule efforts to improve national security must be handled carefully.”
The source explained that the DSS invitation was in line with standard security protocol.
“These engagements are not punitive,” he said. “They are preventive. The aim is to understand the intention behind his remarks, provide context, and ensure such narratives do not inadvertently provoke unrest or erode public confidence in state institutions.”
