Atiku’s claim: DSS denies plotting Sokoto protest, orders probe
The Department of State Services (DSS) has refuted claims made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding a purported plan to organize protests in Sokoto State. The DSS characterized Abubakar’s allegations, made in his capacity as the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as inconsistent with the agency’s operations.
In a statement released Tuesday, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, confirmed that the Director-General of the DSS has initiated an investigation into the allegations, in consideration of Abubakar’s stature.
The statement detailed an incident involving ADC governorship candidate Mannir Daniya, who was targeted in an attack on October 31, 2026. DSS operatives, assigned to protect Daniya, successfully evacuated him without injury, although two operatives sustained injuries and remain hospitalized.
Daniya later contacted the State Director of the DSS in Sokoto to express his gratitude for their prompt response and has requested additional security measures.
The DSS also highlighted a recent case in Rivers State, where Monday Udeme Steven was arrested and subsequently prosecuted for allegedly threatening Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Steven was sentenced to two years in prison by a Federal High Court.
The agency emphasized that its efforts to ensure the safety of politicians across various political parties contradict the allegations made by Abubakar, asserting that such statements may undermine the morale of operatives who risk their safety in the course of their duties.
The statement referenced a similar incident in which African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore alleged involvement by the DSS in an attack on him in Ekiti State. The DSS noted that the police conducted a rapid investigation, leading to the identification of the incident’s cause as an altercation and resulting in the arrest of 11 individuals.
The DSS has stated it will await the conclusions of any ongoing investigations and will refrain from engaging further on the matter. The agency reiterated its commitment to accountability under the current leadership of the Director-General.
