The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Department of State Services (DSS) leadership of recruiting protesters to disrupt its campaign rally in Sokoto, Nigeria. The party's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, made the allegation in a statement, claiming that public facilities meant for campaign activities had been blocked and logistical support withheld to frustrate the ADC's planned rally in the state. Abubakar described the developments as deliberate attempts to deny the opposition a level playing field.
Abubakar alleged that the planned protests were designed to create disorder and provide the APC-controlled state government with an excuse to impose a curfew. He claimed that information available to the party suggested that some protesters had been mobilised from an office behind Zenith Bank on Koko Road, with trucks stationed there and deployed to strategic locations. The protesters had caused traffic gridlock, threatened commuters, and beaten some residents.
The ADC candidate accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of devoting excessive attention to weakening credible opposition parties instead of addressing the economic difficulties confronting Nigerians. He alleged that the government had pursued a policy of political intimidation and absorption of opposition figures into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with the ultimate objective of reducing Nigeria to a one-party state.
Abubakar outlined his economic priorities, promising to make life affordable through increased local production, stronger food production, job creation, and measures to reduce the cost of doing business. He proposed a targeted production subsidy tied to fuel refined in Nigeria, arguing that the policy would provide measurable relief to consumers while strengthening domestic industries.
The presidential candidate criticised the APC over the poor turnout at its recent rally in Kaduna, saying the ruling party should regard the development as a warning that Nigerians were withdrawing their confidence. He accused the government of resorting to intimidation and obstruction because of its declining popularity.
Abubakar confirmed that he would be in Sokoto on Wednesday, November 4, to address supporters, despite the alleged attempts to frustrate the rally. He appealed to residents to remain peaceful and avoid being provoked into violence, urging security agencies to protect commuters, residents, and rally participants without political bias.
The candidate urged Nigerian voters to defend their democratic rights and resist intimidation, stressing that the freedom to choose their leaders belonged to the people. He pledged to lead the ADC campaign without abandoning the political field, adding that officers who remained faithful to the Constitution would have the party's support.
Key points
- ADC accuses DSS of recruiting protesters to disrupt Sokoto rally.
- Atiku Abubakar warns against undermining opposition activities ahead of 2027 general election.
- ADC promises to make life affordable through increased local production and job creation.
