The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied allegations by African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, that the Service is organising protests in Sokoto State.
The Service, however, affirmed that it had ordered an investigation into the allegation in deference to the former vice-president, describing the claim as inconsistent with its efforts to protect political actors across party lines.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications of the DSS, Favour Dozie, the Service explained that its operatives deployed to protect the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Daniya, had rescued him during an attack on October 31, 2026.
Dozie disclosed that Daniya was evacuated to safety unhurt, while two DSS operatives sustained injuries during the incident and were still receiving treatment in the hospital.
The Service added that the governorship candidate personally contacted the State Director of the DSS in Sokoto to express appreciation for the intervention and subsequently requested additional security reinforcement.
The DSS said that its actions were aimed at protecting political actors irrespective of their party affiliations, emphasising that such operations contradicted allegations that it was sponsoring protests in the state.
It added that the allegation could demoralise operatives risking their lives in the discharge of their duties.
Dozie also recalled the arrest of one Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, over alleged threats to attack the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi.
According to the Service, the suspect was prosecuted before a Federal High Court in Rivers State and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
The DSS reiterated that the prosecution was part of its efforts to protect political candidates and ensure their safety, regardless of political affiliation.
The Service also referenced an earlier allegation by African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who accused it of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State.
It commended the police for conducting a swift investigation into the incident, noting that a preliminary report attributed the incident to an “altercation” and led to the arrest of 11 suspects.
The DSS confirmed that it was awaiting the outcome of the police investigation and would not expend further energy on the matter.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, assuring that it would continue to operate responsibly under the leadership of its current Director-General.
