Ex-APC spokesman raises alarm over alleged use of protesters and security agencies to disrupt opposition campaigns
Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of allegedly using protests and security agencies to frustrate opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Frank warned that such actions, if established, could undermine political freedom and weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
He spoke following allegations by former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, that the Sokoto State Government and the Department of State Services (DSS) were frustrating the party’s planned campaign rally in the state.
Atiku had alleged that the ADC was denied access to public facilities and logistical support. He also claimed that protesters were being mobilised to create disorder and provide grounds for imposing a curfew to stop the rally.
Reacting in a statement issued on Wednesday, Frank described the alleged mobilisation of protesters against opposition gatherings as a growing concern.
“At every opposition rally across the country, this has become their new protest strategy. They are also involving security agencies, particularly the DSS,” he alleged.
The former APC spokesman accused the ruling party of creating obstacles for opposition parties and warned Tinubu against actions capable of truncating democracy.
“Tinubu must not truncate this democracy with his desperation. Despite their denial, the facts on ground have shown clearly that they have a sinister plot against the opposition, and Nigerians will legally resist such moves vehemently,” he said.
Frank called on the Sokoto State Government and other state administrations to allow opposition parties to organise rallies and campaign without political interference.
He insisted that all political parties must enjoy equal rights to use public facilities, mobilise supporters and reach voters.
He also urged the United States Government and other members of the international community to monitor political developments in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections.
Frank warned that public officials and security operatives involved in frustrating lawful political activities would be held accountable.
“All those involved, including the security agencies, will be held responsible,” he said.
He urged Tinubu to ensure that government institutions and security agencies remained neutral and were not used to intimidate political opponents.
Frank, who is also the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, cautioned political parties against allowing tensions to degenerate into violence.
He urged opposition supporters to avoid retaliation and pursue their grievances through lawful and democratic means.
He maintained that Nigeria must not become a country where the ruling party enjoys unrestricted freedom to campaign while opposition parties face obstacles in exercising their democratic rights.