The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling insecurity, saying alleged attempts to disrupt his party’s campaign will not stop its activities ahead of the 2027 general election.
“I enumerated some of the promises I made to Nigerians. One of them is to ensure that security is restored in every part of this country,” he said.
Atiku spoke on Wednesday at the flag-off of his presidential campaign in Sokoto, where he urged Nigerians to support and vote for the ADC in the forthcoming election.
His remarks came a day after he accused the Sokoto State Government and security operatives of plotting to disrupt the campaign rally. He alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) was recruiting protesters to cause disturbances and create a situation that could be used to impose a curfew.
At a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, the former vice president also accused the state government of denying the ADC access to public facilities and logistical support for the rally. He described the alleged restrictions as a deliberate attempt to deny the opposition party a level playing field.
The DSS subsequently ordered an investigation into Atiku’s allegation. The Service said the directive came from its director-general, while describing the claim as inconsistent with its operations.
The agency said its operatives had provided security protection to political actors across party lines. It cited an incident involving the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto, Mannir Daniya, who was reportedly evacuated to safety by DSS personnel after being attacked on October 31.
Despite the controversy, Atiku went ahead with the campaign flag-off, saying attempts to frustrate the party would not deter it from addressing the people of Sokoto.
He said the state was chosen for the campaign launch because of its historical significance and reputation for peace.
Atiku recalled the promises he made during his previous campaign, saying he had returned to reaffirm his commitment to them, particularly his pledge to tackle insecurity if elected president.
He urged Nigerians to turn out in large numbers on election day and vote for the ADC, expressing confidence in the party’s political mission.
The rally marked the formal start of Atiku’s presidential campaign activities in Sokoto ahead of the 2027 general election.
