_Former Vice-President says alleged attempts to frustrate rally will not deter party, urges Nigerians to vote ADC in 2027_
*By Danjuma Amodu*
The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling insecurity, declaring that alleged attempts to frustrate his party’s campaign will not stop its activities ahead of the 2027 general election.
Atiku spoke on Wednesday at the flag-off of his presidential campaign in Sokoto, where he urged Nigerians to support the ADC and vote for the party in the forthcoming election.
His declaration came a day after he accused the Sokoto State Government and security operatives of plotting to disrupt the campaign rally, alleging that the Department of State Services (DSS) was recruiting protesters to cause disturbances and create a situation that could be used to impose a curfew.
At a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, the former Vice-President also accused the state government of denying the ADC access to public facilities and logistical support for the rally. He described the alleged restrictions as deliberate attempts to deny the opposition party a level playing field.
The DSS subsequently ordered an investigation into Atiku’s allegation, saying the directive was issued by its Director-General, despite the Service describing the claim as inconsistent with its operations. In its response, the agency said its operatives had provided security protection to political actors across party lines. It cited an incident involving the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto, Mannir Daniya, whom its personnel reportedly evacuated to safety after he was attacked on October 31.
Despite the controversy, Atiku proceeded with the campaign flag-off, declaring that no attempt to frustrate the party would deter it from addressing the people of Sokoto. He explained that the state was deliberately chosen for the campaign launch because of its historical significance and reputation for peace.
The ADC candidate recalled the promises he made during his previous campaign, saying he had returned to reaffirm his commitment to those pledges, particularly his promise to tackle insecurity if elected President. He also called on Nigerians to turn out in large numbers on election day and vote for the ADC, expressing confidence in the party’s political mission.
The rally marks the formal commencement of Atiku’s presidential campaign activities in Sokoto ahead of the 2027 general election.
