The Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated an investigation into allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that the Service is organizing protests in Sokoto State. Atiku, who is also the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, made the claims recently. However, the DSS has dismissed the allegations, stating they are inconsistent with its operations.
According to the DSS, its personnel have been providing security protection to political actors across party lines. The Service stated that its operatives deployed to protect the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Daniya, evacuated him to safety when he was attacked on October 31, 2026. During the incident, two DSS operatives were assaulted and were still receiving treatment in a hospital.
The DSS also cited its arrest and prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, for allegedly threatening to attack the presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi. Steven was prosecuted before a Federal High Court in Rivers State and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. The Service said such operations demonstrate its commitment to protecting political actors.
The DSS stated that its operations to protect political actors across party lines contradict Atiku's allegations, which it said could demoralize operatives risking their lives while discharging their duties. However, the Service's Director-General has directed an investigation into the allegations in deference to the former vice president.
This is not the first time the DSS has faced similar allegations. The African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, had accused the DSS of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State. The police conducted a swift investigation, providing a preliminary report attributing the incident to an altercation, and 11 suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.
The DSS further noted that it is awaiting the outcome of the police investigation into the Sowore incident and will not dissipate energy on the matter. The Service emphasized that it will continue to remain accountable under its present Director-General.
The investigation into Atiku's allegations will be conducted thoroughly, despite the DSS's denial of the claims. The Service's commitment to protecting political actors and ensuring their safety is paramount. Key points include:
Key points
- The DSS has initiated an investigation into Atiku Abubakar's allegations of planned protests in Sokoto State.
- The Service has denied the allegations, citing its operations to protect political actors across party lines.
- The investigation is in deference to the former vice president, demonstrating the Service's accountability.
