The Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State yesterday invited the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman, over a petition against him by some members of the opposition.
LEADING REPORTERS gathered that he was with the service for several hours.
It was further gathered that the DSS decided to invite him for discussion on issues that will bring peace to the state.
Speaking with newsmen after the meeting, Alhaji Usman said the invitation was normal.
According to him, they had fruitful discussions and as a good citizen of the state, he and his party would always maintain peace. He assured that the coming election would be free and fair.
He further stated that as far as he was concerned, there is no tension in the state ahead of the election, and urged his supporters to continue to maintain peace before, during and after the election.
Also speaking with newsmen, the commissioner for information and communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, said Ododo was invited by the DSS, and as a law-abiding citizen who is aspiring to lead the state, he honoured the invitation.
He said, “The allegations contained in the petition are frivolous and unfounded, but it was incumbent on the APC candidate to respect a constituted authority such as the DSS. Alhaji Ododo was questioned by a team of operatives at the DSS for hours, and he gave convincing explanations to the interrogators.
“We commend the professionalism of the DSS and pledge our cooperation to whatever measures are taken or that would be taken to ensure a peaceful poll.
“We assure supporters of the APC governorship candidate that he has since left the DSS office to continue his consultations with Kogites ahead of the poll. Our commitment to peace and tranquility is iron cast.”