I’M NOT A CRIMINAL, THEY ARE IN YOUR OFFICES AND CORRIDORS OF POWER – BABA-AHMED RECOUNTS DSS INVITATION
The Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, has described his recent invitation by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) as a “mild Nollywood drama,” insisting he is not a criminal.
Baba-Ahmed’s invitation reportedly followed concerns over his recent public comments on the judiciary, the military, and the presidency.
During a television interview, the Labour Party chieftain had criticised the judiciary and the military for allowing the swearing-in of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, remarks which security sources said could heighten national tension.
A security insider disclosed that Baba-Ahmed’s statements were viewed as sensitive, noting that such rhetoric, if unchecked, could threaten the corporate existence of the country.
Recounting his experience in an interview, Baba-Ahmed said he voluntarily honoured the DSS invitation out of curiosity, stressing that he had no criminal record.
According to him, the engagement with the DSS lasted a little over two hours and left him deeply concerned about the state of leadership and governance in Nigeria.
“I walked into their national headquarters very curious, wondering why they were looking for me. I am not a criminal. The criminals are in your offices and corridors of power,” he said.
The Baze University founder and chancellor also clarified that he was never invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), adding that the anti-graft agency had no reason to summon him.
Baba-Ahmed further stated that the encounter made him feel sorry for the country, describing Nigeria’s leadership as weak and lacking direction.
Despite the incident, he dismissed any notion of intimidation and urged Nigerians not to be afraid, emphasizing that democratic accountability must not be suppressed.
“The wind is blowing and they’re scaring people. Do not be afraid. Trust in God and believe in yourselves. They will add up to nothing,” he added.
