Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of mobilising protesters to disrupt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) rally in Sokoto, prompting the security agency to order an investigation into the allegation.
Atiku raised the concern as the ADC prepared for its presidential campaign flag-off, amid tension over the party’s planned activities in the state.
The party had kept the rally venue secret, citing concerns about possible disruption. The police, however, assured that adequate security would be provided.
The Sokoto State Government had earlier defended the sealing of the ADC office, claiming it followed an alleged clash between supporters of the ADC and the Peoples Democratic Party. It also cited concerns over the property’s ownership, saying the title remained in the name of the defunct Savannah Bank.
Meanwhile, the ADC petitioned the United States, United Kingdom, European Union and other international bodies over what it described as threats to its political activities.
The development has raised concerns about the security of opposition parties and the need for government agencies to remain neutral as political campaigns gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.