Atiku accuses DSS of political interference ahead of rally
Former vice-president Atiku Abubakar has accused the Sokoto State Government and security operatives of attempting to disrupt an African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign rally, alleging that protesters were being mobilised to prevent the event from taking place.
Atiku, the ADC presidential candidate, made the allegations at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, saying the party had been denied access to public facilities and logistical support ahead of Wednesday’s rally.
“These are not harmless administrative delays. They are deliberate attempts to deny the ADC a level playing field,” he said.
The former vice-president alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) was involved in mobilising protesters to cause disturbances that could provide grounds for imposing a curfew.
He claimed that some protesters had assembled at an office behind Zenith Bank on Koko Road, where trucks were allegedly being used to transport them to strategic locations.
“We know where some of these protesters are assembled: an office behind Zenith Bank on Koko road,” Atiku said.
He alleged that the activities had caused traffic congestion and that some commuters had been threatened or assaulted.
Atiku accused security personnel allegedly involved in the operation of abandoning their constitutional responsibilities for partisan interests.
“This is not intelligence work. It is political interference dressed in official uniform,” he said.
He urged security agencies to remain neutral and protect the rights of Nigerians to participate in political activities without intimidation.
Atiku also accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of attempting to weaken opposition parties through defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The aim is to reduce Nigeria to a one-party state in all but name,” he claimed.
Turning to the economy, Atiku criticised rising food, fuel, electricity and transport costs, promising that an ADC administration would prioritise domestic production, employment and measures to reduce living expenses.
He proposed targeted subsidies linked to locally refined fuel as part of efforts to support consumers and domestic industries.
Despite the alleged obstacles, Atiku insisted that the party’s campaign would proceed.
“Our campaign will proceed, and I will be in Sokoto tomorrow, God willing, to address the good people of the state,” he said.
He urged supporters to remain peaceful and called on security agencies to protect rally participants and other residents.