The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied allegations by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar that it planned to disrupt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign rally in Sokoto State.
However, the agency’s Director-General, Oluwatosin Ajayi, has ordered an investigation into the allegation.
Atiku, the ADC presidential candidate, accused the security agency of recruiting protesters to cause disturbances ahead of the party’s planned rally.
He made the allegation on Tuesday while responding to journalists in Abuja.
According to Atiku, the alleged protesters were being mobilised to create disorder and provide grounds for imposing a curfew that could prevent the rally from holding.
DSS Cites Rescue of ADC Governorship Candidate
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DSS said its operations demonstrated its commitment to protecting political actors across party lines.
The agency cited an incident involving the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Daniya, on October 31, 2026.
According to the service, its operatives rescued Daniya during an attack and evacuated him to safety.
The DSS also disclosed that two of its personnel were assaulted during the incident. They were still receiving medical treatment as of Tuesday.
The agency added that Daniya personally contacted the Sokoto State Director of the DSS to appreciate the intervention.
He also requested additional security reinforcement, according to the statement.
Agency Says It Has Protected Politicians Across Parties
The DSS further cited its arrest and prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State on March 2, 2026.
The agency said Steven had threatened to attack New Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi.
According to the service, he was prosecuted before a Federal High Court in Rivers State and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
The agency said these operations demonstrated its willingness to protect political figures regardless of their party affiliations.
It also argued that Atiku’s allegation was inconsistent with its security operations and could demoralise personnel working to protect political actors.
Nevertheless, the Director-General ordered an investigation into the allegation.
DSS Recalls Sowore’s Earlier Allegation
The agency also referred to a similar allegation by African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore.
Sowore had accused the DSS of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State.
The service said it welcomed the police investigation into the incident.
According to the DSS, a preliminary police report attributed the incident to an altercation, while 11 suspects were arrested.
The agency said it was awaiting the final outcome of the police investigation.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability under the leadership of its current Director-General.
The latest development comes amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties preparing for campaign activities across the country.
