The Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria has initiated an internal investigation into allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Atiku had accused the DSS of plotting to organize protests in Sokoto State. The investigation was ordered by the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi. This move is in deference to Atiku's status as an elder statesman, despite the DSS describing the allegations as baseless and demoralizing to its operatives.
The DSS has strongly rebutted Atiku's allegations, reaffirming its commitment to non-partisanship and protecting political figures across all party lines. According to the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS has been actively working to counter the narrative of bias. The agency highlighted its recent operations in Sokoto State, where it rescued the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Governorship Candidate, Mannir Daniya, from an attack on October 31, 2026.
During the rescue operation, two DSS personnel sustained injuries while shielding Daniya and are currently undergoing treatment. The DSS revealed that Daniya personally contacted the Sokoto State Director of the Command to express gratitude and requested additional reinforcement. This incident demonstrates the DSS's commitment to protecting political figures, regardless of their party affiliation.
The DSS also pointed to its track record of defending opposition leaders. The agency recalled the arrest and successful prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State earlier this year. Steven had issued threats against Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The DSS stated that it arrested Steven and he was sentenced to two years imprisonment.
Addressing a separate allegation raised by Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), regarding an incident in Ekiti State, the DSS commended the Nigeria Police Force for its swift handling of the investigation. Preliminary police findings classified the event as an "altercation," which led to the arrest of 11 suspects.
The DSS noted that it would await the final police report rather than "dissipate energy on the matter." The agency reassured the public of its institutional integrity amid heightened political activities. The DSS emphasized that it "will continue to remain accountable under the present DG."
The investigation into Atiku's allegations is a significant development in Nigeria's political landscape. The DSS's commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in maintaining public trust. The agency's actions demonstrate its dedication to upholding its mandate while protecting the rights and safety of all political figures.
Key points
- The DSS has launched an internal investigation into Atiku Abubakar's allegations of planned Sokoto protests.
- The agency has denied the allegations as baseless and reaffirmed its commitment to non-partisanship.
- The DSS has a track record of defending opposition leaders, including the rescue of Mannir Daniya and the prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven.
