DSS Fires Back at Atiku Over Sokoto Plot Allegation, Reveals Two Operatives Injured in Rescue of ADC Candidate

The Department of State Services (DSS) has dismissed allegations by former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, that it is plotting to orchestrate protests in Sokoto State, disclosing that two of its operatives were injured while protecting the party’s governorship candidate, Mannir Daniya.

Atiku had alleged that the security agency was recruiting protesters to provoke unrest in Sokoto and create grounds for imposing a curfew to disrupt the ADC’s planned campaign rally.

But the DSS, in a statement issued through its official X handle, questioned the allegation, citing its recent intervention to protect Daniya during an attack in the state on October 31, 2026.

The Service disclosed that its operatives successfully evacuated the ADC governorship candidate from the scene without injury, but two personnel sustained injuries during the operation and were still receiving treatment in hospital.

It further revealed that Daniya personally contacted the State Director of the DSS in Sokoto to express appreciation for the intervention and requested additional security reinforcement.

According to the agency, its actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting political actors across party lines, irrespective of their affiliations.

Despite challenging the allegation, the DSS disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an investigation into the matter in deference to Atiku, whom it described as an elder statesman.

The Service, however, expressed concern that the allegation could undermine the morale of its personnel, who risk their lives while carrying out security operations.

In further defence of its record, the DSS recalled its arrest of Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, over threats to attack Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC).

The agency said Steven was subsequently prosecuted before a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.

The security agency also cited allegations by African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who had accused it of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State.

It said the police had conducted a preliminary investigation, attributed the incident to an altercation and arrested 11 suspects.

The DSS commended the police for their intervention, adding that it would await the conclusion of the investigation rather than expend further energy on the allegation.

The Service reiterated its commitment to accountability and professional conduct under the current Director-General.

The statement was signed by Favour Dozie, Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, DSS National Headquarters, Abuja.