Bolatito Mercy
The Department of State Services (DSS) has ordered an investigation into allegations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that the agency is sponsoring protests in Sokoto State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Service said its Director-General directed the probe in response to Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), although it described the allegation as contrary to its operational practices.
The DSS maintained that its operatives had consistently provided security protection to political figures across party lines. It cited recent interventions involving the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Mannir Daniya, and New Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
According to the agency, its personnel assigned to protect Daniya rescued him during an attack in Sokoto on October 31, 2026. Two DSS operatives were reportedly assaulted during the incident and were still receiving medical attention.
The Service added that Daniya personally contacted the State Director of its Sokoto Command to appreciate the operatives’ efforts and subsequently requested additional security reinforcement.
It also highlighted the arrest and prosecution of Monday Udeme Steven in Rivers State on March 2, 2026, over threats to attack Obi. The suspect was reportedly prosecuted before a Federal High Court and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
The DSS argued that these interventions demonstrated its commitment to protecting political actors regardless of their party affiliations. It warned that allegations questioning its neutrality could undermine the morale of personnel who risk their lives in the discharge of their duties.
The agency also referred to allegations by African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who accused the Service of involvement in an attack on him in Ekiti State.
It commended the police for conducting a prompt investigation, which reportedly produced a preliminary report linking the incident to an altercation and led to the arrest of 11 suspects.
The DSS said it was awaiting the final outcome of the police investigation and would not expend further energy on the matter.
However, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and professionalism under its current Director-General.
