By Nworisa Michael
A Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has denied reports that he was arrested by security operatives following a recent visit by former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The claim of his alleged arrest had earlier been raised by Obi, who stated that the cleric was taken into custody shortly after hosting him in Kaduna. The development sparked widespread concern, with the former Anambra State governor describing it as a troubling sign for democratic freedoms and freedom of expression.
However, Umar, in a video message that circulated widely on social media, dismissed the reports as false, clarifying that he was neither arrested nor detained.
“I am speaking today to correct a false report being circulated in some quarters. I was not detained,” he said.
The cleric explained that he was only invited for questioning, noting that he fully cooperated with the authorities and was released thereafter.
“I was invited for questioning. I cooperated fully and I was released. I am free. I am safe. And I am well,” he stated.
Umar also called for calm, urging his supporters and members of the public not to take the law into their hands or create tension over the incident.
“No one should take the law into his hands. No one should create disorder in the name of loyalty,” he cautioned.
He further encouraged citizens to express their concerns through lawful and democratic means, stressing the importance of civic participation.
“The answer is very simple: register, vote, and choose better leadership when the time comes,” he added.
The incident had generated reactions across political and civic spaces, with observers raising concerns over its implications. However, the cleric’s clarification appears to have eased tensions surrounding the situation.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Department of State Services on the circumstances surrounding the invitation.
