The Department of State Services (DSS) has rejected allegations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that it was involved in recruiting protesters to disrupt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign rally in Sokoto.
Atiku had accused the security agency and some political actors of allegedly creating conditions that could prevent the opposition party from holding its campaign activities peacefully.
However, the DSS has denied the accusation and ordered an investigation into the claims.
The disagreement has added another layer of tension to the political atmosphere as parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections.
Atiku, who is campaigning under the ADC, has repeatedly criticised what he describes as attempts to weaken opposition parties. The security agency’s response now places the focus on whether evidence will emerge to support or dismiss the allegations.
For ordinary Nigerians, the bigger concern is the need for political parties to operate freely without intimidation, while security agencies must remain professional and impartial.
With campaign activities expected to increase in the coming months, how the authorities handle disputes of this nature could become an important test of public confidence.
