Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has accused the All Progressives Congress-led government in Sokoto State and the Department of State Services (DSS) of allegedly working to frustrate the African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign rally scheduled for Wednesday.
Atiku, the ADC presidential candidate, made the allegations while addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday.
He claimed that protesters were being mobilised to create disorder in Sokoto, which he alleged could give the state government grounds to impose a curfew and prevent the party’s rally from holding.
The former vice-president also alleged that public facilities intended for campaign activities had been blocked and logistical support withheld, describing the situation as an attempt to deny the ADC a level playing field ahead of the 2027 general election.
Atiku said information available to his party indicated that protesters were being assembled at an office behind Zenith Bank on Koko Road, with trucks allegedly deployed to strategic locations, including a roundabout.
He claimed the mobilisation had caused traffic disruption and that some commuters and residents had been threatened or assaulted. The allegations have not been independently verified.
Atiku called on security agencies to remain impartial and protect residents, commuters and rally participants.
He said the ADC would proceed with its campaign despite the alleged obstacles and confirmed that he planned to be in Sokoto on Wednesday to address supporters.
“Our campaign will proceed, and I will be in Sokoto tomorrow, God willing, to address the good people of the state,” he said.
The former vice-president urged residents to remain peaceful and avoid being provoked into violence.
He also warned that security personnel who allegedly colluded in suppressing political activities would be held accountable, while calling on officers to uphold their constitutional responsibilities.
The allegations come amid a dispute over the closure of an ADC campaign office in Sokoto. The state government has cited an ownership issue involving the premises, while the party has challenged the action.
