Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Sokoto State Government of attempting to frustrate the African Democratic Congress presidential campaign kickoff in Sokoto State.
Atiku alleged that security operatives were mobilising protesters to create disorder in the state, with the intention of providing an excuse for the government to impose a curfew and stop the opposition party from holding its rally.
The ADC presidential candidate made the allegations on Tuesday while addressing journalists at his Abuja residence ahead of the campaign flag-off scheduled for Wednesday, November 4.
He claimed that some protesters had been assembled at an office behind Zenith Bank on Koko Road, with trucks allegedly deployed to strategic locations to create traffic congestion and disrupt movement.
Atiku also accused the state government of denying the opposition access to public facilities and making transportation arrangements difficult for party members travelling to Sokoto.
He described the alleged actions as political interference, insisting that security agencies should protect citizens and political organisations rather than participate in activities that could undermine democratic competition.
However, the DSS said its Director-General had ordered an investigation into the allegations.
In a statement issued by its Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the agency maintained that its operatives had been providing security support to political parties.
The service also cited an incident on October 31, when its operatives reportedly rescued the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto, Mannir Daniya, during an attack.
It said two DSS operatives were assaulted during the incident and were still receiving medical treatment.
Meanwhile, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, maintained that the party would proceed with its campaign despite the alleged attempts to frustrate the exercise.
The party had earlier confirmed that it secured a venue for the rally but declined to disclose its location publicly, citing security concerns.
The Sokoto State Police Command, however, said it had received a request from the organisers for security coverage, adding that the Commissioner of Police had directed adequate protection for the event.
The controversy follows the sealing of the ADC state office by the Sokoto State Government, an action the government defended as necessary to prevent further violence following a confrontation involving party supporters.
The ADC has also petitioned the United States, United Kingdom, European Union and Muslim World League over alleged political intimidation and restrictions on opposition activities in the state.
The party’s campaign kickoff is part of its mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections.
