Tinubu Must Answer! — Atiku Explodes Over Alleged Political Violence, Warns Democracy Is In Danger!
By Passman Akpos
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned reported attacks involving the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, and the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of creating an atmosphere of intimidation against opposition figures.
Atiku described the incidents as deeply troubling and unacceptable, warning that continued attacks on opposition politicians and their supporters could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former Vice President alleged that the incidents reflected an attempt by individuals loyal to the ruling party to suppress opposition voices and discourage Nigerians from freely participating in political activities.
He particularly questioned the circumstances surrounding the incidents, noting that while President Bola Tinubu was away on a spiritual pilgrimage, opposition figures were reportedly facing attacks at home.
According to Atiku, the alleged activities of political enforcers and thugs loyal to the ruling party raise serious concerns about the safety of opposition politicians and the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the unexplained disappearance of critical social media influencers, arguing that such developments could signal a dangerous movement towards a censored political environment.
Atiku Demands Investigation, Accuses Sokoto Security Outfit Of Harassment
Beyond the reported attacks on Sowore and Dan’iya, Atiku alleged that a local security outfit in Sokoto State had been harassing ADC supporters and physically manhandling citizens simply for wearing clothing bearing the party’s insignia.
He said such alleged actions were unacceptable in a democratic society where citizens should be free to identify with political parties, express their opinions and support candidates without intimidation.
Atiku consequently demanded immediate and transparent investigations into both incidents, insisting that anyone found responsible must be held accountable.
He also urged the Tinubu administration to refrain from any action capable of restricting opposition activities and guarantee a free, fair and competitive electoral environment ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
Conflicting Accounts Emerge Over Reported Attacks
The incidents have generated political controversy, with the circumstances surrounding both reported attacks attracting public attention.
In Ekiti State, Sowore alleged that he and members of his team were attacked by armed men at a restaurant in Ado-Ekiti.
In Sokoto State, Dan’iya also alleged that his convoy was obstructed and attacked following an encounter involving personnel of the Sokoto Marshal and the state Community Guard.
The Sokoto State Police Command reportedly commenced an investigation into the incident, while the APC in the state reportedly dismissed the allegations surrounding the attack on Dan’iya’s convoy.
The conflicting accounts have increased calls for transparent investigations to establish exactly what happened and identify those responsible.
‘We Shall Resist Every Attempt To Cancel Political Opposition’ — Atiku
Reiterating his position, Atiku declared that Nigerians must not be intimidated or prevented from participating in the country’s political process.
He maintained that political opposition remains an essential component of democracy and that no individual or political organisation should be subjected to violence because of its political affiliation.
Atiku stated:
“We shall resist every ongoing attempt to cancel political opposition in Nigeria. The ruling APC has failed in its mandate. Nigerians must be allowed to freely participate in an electoral contest that will determine the fate of this administration.”
His intervention comes amid growing political activities and tensions among opposition parties as preparations intensify towards the 2027 general elections.
The former Vice President’s statement has renewed questions about the responsibility of security agencies to protect political candidates, supporters and citizens regardless of their political affiliations.
The central question now is whether authorities will conduct transparent investigations and ensure that political differences do not become grounds for intimidation, harassment or violence in Nigeria.
