DSS Denies Atiku’s Sokoto Protest Plot Allegation

Atiku Abubakar accused Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) of recruiting protesters in Sokoto to disrupt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign launch and create grounds for a curfew. The DSS denied the allegation and said its director-general had ordered an investigation. The competing statements do not establish whether the alleged plot occurred. Atiku said the alleged unrest could prevent the party’s campaign event from going ahead. He also accused the Sokoto State Government of obstructing ADC campaign activities. The DSS said the allegation was inconsistent with its work protecting politicians across party lines and could demoralise its operatives. In its response, the agency said its officers evacuated ADC governorship candidate Mannir Daniya during an attack in Sokoto on October 31. The DSS said Daniya was taken to safety without injury and that two officers were assaulted and remained in hospital for treatment. It also said Daniya later contacted the state director to thank him and request additional security reinforcement. These details were given in the DSS account; the supplied reports do not independently corroborate the incident. ADC campaign...