The Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated an investigation into allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who claimed that the secret police planned to organise protests in Sokoto State. Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had accused the DSS of plotting to stage protests in the state.
The DSS has denied Atiku's allegations, stating that they contradict its operational mandate to protect political actors across party lines. According to the DSS, its operatives deployed to protect the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Dan’iya, successfully evacuated him to safety during an attack on October 31, 2026.
During the attack, two DSS operatives were assaulted and are still receiving medical treatment. The incident demonstrated the DSS's commitment to safeguarding political actors, regardless of party affiliation. Mannir Dan’iya personally contacted the Sokoto State Director of the DSS to express appreciation for the operatives' intervention and requested additional security reinforcement.
The DSS has expressed concern that Atiku's allegations could undermine the morale of its operatives, who risk their lives in the discharge of their duties. Despite this, the service's Director-General has ordered an investigation into Atiku's claims. The DSS cited a similar case where it arrested and prosecuted a man, Monday Udeme Steven, in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, for allegedly threatening to attack Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC).
The DSS also referenced an incident involving Omoyele Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, who accused the service of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State. The DSS welcomed the police investigation into the incident and noted that a preliminary report attributed the attack to an altercation, with 11 suspects arrested.
The service reaffirmed its commitment to accountability under its current Director-General. The DSS said it would not expend further energy on Sowore's matter, awaiting the outcome of the police investigation. The investigation into Atiku's allegations is ongoing.
The DSS's decision to investigate Atiku's claims demonstrates its dedication to transparency and accountability. The service's efforts to protect political actors and ensure public safety are ongoing.
Key points
- The DSS has denied Atiku Abubakar's allegations of planned protests in Sokoto State.
- The service has initiated an investigation into Atiku's claims despite contradicting its operational mandate.
- The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to accountability under its current Director-General.
