By John Umeh
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly invited Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed for a formal discussion following a series of public statements the agency considers capable of stirring tension within the country.
According to a security insider who spoke to analyst Zagazola Makama, the intelligence service became increasingly concerned over the former vice-presidential candidate’s recent comments across television appearances and interviews, many of which were interpreted as suggesting that Nigeria is facing a “constitutional breakdown.”
The source said Baba-Ahmed’s latest TV appearance particularly raised alarm within the security establishment. During the programme, he was said to have heavily criticised both the judiciary and the military, accusing them of permitting the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima despite his claim of irregularities.
“He went as far as making statements that could be construed as provoking the military,” the official explained. “Remarks like these, especially in a politically heated period, can escalate tensions if left unchecked.”
Security authorities, the source added, consider such rhetoric dangerous because similar narratives have contributed to political crises in other nations, including parts of West Africa.
“This has nothing to do with partisan issues,” the official emphasised. “Once comments begin to challenge the cohesion of the state or undermine public confidence in national institutions, the DSS is compelled to act in the interest of stability.”
The insider noted that the invitation extended to Baba-Ahmed is routine and falls under preventive engagement, not punishment. The goal, according to him, is to understand the context of his comments, caution against possible misinterpretation, and avert the spread of statements that could inadvertently trigger unrest.
“These interactions are usually aimed at reducing tension, clarifying intentions, and ensuring that public discourse does not spiral into something harmful,” the official concluded.
