Monday, April 27, 2026 - Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has expressed grave concern over claims that the Nigerian Senate is considering the suspension of political campaigns in eight Northern states under the pretext of rising insecurity ahead of 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu,
Atiku described the development as deeply troubling and fraught with dangerous
implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
Atiku noted that while insecurity remains a serious national
challenge that must be confronted decisively, it must never become a convenient
justification for undermining constitutional rights or selectively restricting
democratic participation.
“Let it be clearly stated: the right to vote and participate
in the electoral process is fundamental and cannot be abridged under any guise.
Any attempt—whether deliberate or disguised—to suppress political activities in
parts of Northern Nigeria raises legitimate concerns about disenfranchisement,”
Atiku said.
He recalled that credible intelligence had earlier pointed
to possible plans to weaken electoral participation in key Northern states,
warning that recent developments appear to be lending credence to those fears.
“This is not merely about campaigns; it is about
representation, inclusion, and the integrity of our democratic process. You
cannot cure insecurity by silencing the voices of the people. Democracy must
not become a casualty of government failure,” he added.
The former vice president stressed that the people of
Northern Nigeria, like all Nigerians, deserve both security and full
participation in the democratic process—not one at the expense of the other. He
added that it is the responsibility of government to provide security for its
citizens, while it remains the duty of citizens to freely exercise their civic
rights without fear, intimidation, or unlawful restriction.
“At a time when citizens are already battling hardship and
insecurity, the least the government can do is to guarantee their right to be
heard—not to restrict it. Any policy that creates the impression of targeted
exclusion will only deepen distrust and national division,” he warned.
He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission,
security agencies, and the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately
clarify their position and reassure Nigerians that no region will be denied its
constitutional rights.
“Nigeria must never descend into a situation where elections
are shaped by exclusion, fear, or administrative manipulation. The consequences
of such actions are far-reaching and better imagined than experienced,” Atiku
cautioned.
Insecurity has persisted in Northern Nigeria despite efforts
by the Nigerian government to tame the situation.
Plateau, Benue, Kwara, Nasarawa, Borno, and other states in
the region have witnessed a surge in kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism.
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