Idongesit Mishael, Uyo
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday arrived in Sokoto State to lead the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign flag-off, amid political tension over allegations of attempts to disrupt the opposition party’s activities in the state.
Atiku, who is the ADC presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, arrived at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport at about 1 p.m., where he was received by party leaders and a large crowd of supporters.
Among those who received him were his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi; former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami; and other party chieftains.
Former APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun, Hajiya Naja’atu Muhammad and former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, were also among the prominent political figures in Sokoto for the campaign event.
Thousands of supporters gathered around the party’s secretariat and adjoining roads to welcome the ADC candidate as preparations continued for the campaign inauguration.
The visit comes against the backdrop of disagreements between the ADC and the Sokoto State Government over the closure of the party’s campaign office and allegations of intimidation and obstruction of opposition activities.
Atiku had on Tuesday accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of allegedly mobilising protesters to create disorder and provide grounds for preventing the campaign rally from holding.
He also alleged that the state government had restricted the party’s access to public facilities and logistical support.
Describing the situation as an attempt to frustrate opposition participation, Atiku said, “Our campaign will proceed, and I will be in Sokoto tomorrow, God willing, to address the good people of the state.”
The DSS subsequently ordered an investigation into the allegations, while the agency denied involvement in any plan to disrupt the party’s activities.
The ADC had also called on security agencies to guarantee the safety of its members and supporters and allow the party to conduct its campaign without interference.
Reports from Sokoto indicated that some youths allegedly attempted to obstruct movement along roads leading to the campaign venue, but supporters continued towards the gathering.
The campaign flag-off is part of the ADC’s efforts to strengthen its structures across the country and mobilise support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As of the latest available reports, details of speeches and policy declarations at Wednesday’s campaign gathering had not been independently confirmed.
