Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, has accused the Sokoto State Government and security operatives of attempting to disrupt an ADC campaign rally scheduled for Wednesday. Atiku made these allegations at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, stating that the party had been denied access to public facilities and logistical support ahead of the rally. He claimed that the actions were deliberate attempts to deny the ADC a level playing field.
Atiku alleged that the Department of State Services 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. Atiku stated that these activities had caused traffic congestion and that some commuters had been threatened or assaulted.
The former vice-president accused security personnel allegedly involved in the operation of abandoning their constitutional responsibilities for partisan interests. He described the situation as "political interference dressed in official uniform." Atiku 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. He claimed that the aim was to reduce Nigeria to a one-party state in all but name. Atiku's allegations suggest a larger pattern of interference with opposition parties.
Turning to the economy, Atiku criticised rising food, fuel, electricity, and transport costs. He promised that an ADC administration would prioritise domestic production, employment, and measures to reduce living expenses. Atiku 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. He stated that he would be in Sokoto on Wednesday to address the good people of the state, God willing. Atiku urged supporters to remain peaceful and called on security agencies to protect rally participants and other residents.
Atiku's ADC campaign is set to continue, with the candidate vowing to address the people of Sokoto. The situation highlights tensions between opposition parties and the government in Nigeria. Atiku's allegations against the DSS and Sokoto State Government have raised concerns about the neutrality of security agencies and the level playing field for opposition parties.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar accuses DSS of interfering with ADC rally in Sokoto.
- Former vice-president alleges Sokoto State Government attempting to disrupt ADC campaign rally.
- Atiku promises to prioritise domestic production, employment, and measures to reduce living expenses if elected.
