The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied allegations by former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, that it is organizing protests to disrupt political activities in Sokoto State. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DSS said its operatives have been providing security protection to political candidates across party lines. This statement comes after Atiku Abubakar made claims of a plot to disrupt his campaign.
The DSS cited a recent incident where its operatives evacuated the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Daniya, during an attack on October 31, 2026. According to the Service, Daniya was evacuated to safety unhurt, while two DSS operatives were assaulted in the process and are still receiving treatment in hospital. Daniya personally called the State Director of the Sokoto Command to appreciate the intervention and subsequently requested additional reinforcement from the DSS.
The DSS operation in Sokoto State contradicts Atiku's allegation and shows its commitment to protecting political actors, regardless of party affiliation. However, the Service noted that the allegation could demoralize its operatives who are risking their lives in the discharge of their duties. Despite its position, the DSS disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an investigation into the allegation in deference to the former vice president.
The DSS also referenced its intervention in a separate security incident involving the New Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi. On March 2, 2026, it arrested Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State for threatening to attack Obi. The suspect was prosecuted by the Service before a Federal High Court in Rivers State and sentenced to two years' imprisonment.
Furthermore, the DSS cited a similar allegation by African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who accused the Service of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State. The Service appreciated the police for their swift investigation and preliminary report, which attributed the incident to an altercation, as well as the arrest of 11 suspects.
The DSS stated that it is awaiting the outcome of the police investigation into the incident involving Sowore and will not dissipate energy on the matter. The Service emphasized that it will continue to remain accountable under the present Director-General. The DSS also uses this medium to assure the public of its commitment to protecting all political parties and candidates.
Key points from the DSS statement include the evacuation of Mannir Daniya to safety during an attack, the arrest and prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven for threatening Peter Obi, and the ongoing investigation into Atiku Abubakar's allegations. The Service's efforts demonstrate its dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all political actors in Nigeria.
Key points
- The DSS has denied allegations of plotting to disrupt Atiku Abubakar's campaign in Sokoto State.
- The Service cited its protection of candidates across party lines, including the evacuation of Mannir Daniya during an attack.
- The DSS has ordered an investigation into Atiku Abubakar's allegations, despite contradicting evidence.
