DSS Opens Investigation Into Atiku Abubakar’s Allegations of Orchestrated Protests

The Department of State Services (DSS) has officially initiated an investigation into allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who claimed that the security agency is actively organizing protests within Sokoto State. According to a statement released by the DSS on Tuesday, the agency’s Director-General ordered the probe as a gesture of deference to the former Vice President, who is currently the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

DSS Denies Involvement in Protests

While the agency has agreed to investigate the claims, it simultaneously rejected the premise of the allegation. The DSS stated that the notion of the service orchestrating public protests is fundamentally inconsistent with its operational mandate. The agency emphasized that its primary role involves maintaining security and providing protection to political actors, regardless of their party affiliation.

To support its stance, the DSS highlighted several recent interventions aimed at safeguarding political figures. The agency specifically pointed to an incident on October 31, 2026, in Sokoto, where its operatives intervened to protect Mannir Daniya, the ADC governorship candidate. According to the DSS, their personnel successfully evacuated Daniya to safety during an attack, an operation that resulted in injuries to two DSS officers who are currently undergoing medical treatment. The agency noted that Daniya later contacted the Sokoto State Director of the DSS to express his gratitude for the intervention and to request further security reinforcement.

Broader Context of Security Interventions

The DSS also referenced its track record regarding the protection of other political figures to counter the narrative of bias. The agency cited the case of Monday Udeme Steven, who was arrested and prosecuted in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, for issuing threats against New Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi. Steven was subsequently sentenced to two years in prison by a Federal High Court.

The agency warned that unfounded allegations could have a negative impact on the morale of its personnel, who frequently risk their lives to provide security in volatile political environments. By highlighting these past actions, the DSS argued that its operational history contradicts the claims of partisan involvement in civil unrest.

Addressing Similar Allegations

This is not the first time the DSS has faced accusations of political interference. The agency addressed a similar claim made by African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who alleged that the service was involved in an attack against him in Ekiti State. The DSS stated that it has deferred to the Nigeria Police Force for that investigation. According to the DSS, the police have already produced a preliminary report identifying the incident as an altercation and have arrested 11 suspects. The agency indicated that it is awaiting the final outcome of the police investigation and does not intend to expend further resources on the matter.

In its concluding remarks, the DSS reaffirmed its commitment to institutional accountability under the current leadership of the Director-General. While the investigation into Atiku Abubakar’s specific allegations is now underway, the agency maintains that its focus remains on professional conduct and the protection of political actors across the national spectrum.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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