Atiku Condemns Attacks on Sowore, ADC Supporters in Sokoto, Warns Against Growing Political Intimidation Ahead of 2027 Elections.

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned reported attacks on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore in Ekiti State and ADC supporters in Sokoto State, warning that political violence and intimidation pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku described the incidents as troubling and unacceptable, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of presiding over an increasingly hostile political environment in which opposition figures and their supporters face threats while exercising their democratic rights.

In a statement shared on his verified social media account on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the former vice president said the reported attacks demonstrated the growing security concerns surrounding opposition activities in the country.

The first incident involved Sowore, who reportedly sustained injuries alongside members of his entourage following an attack at a restaurant in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Friday, October 30.

Sowore alleged that armed political thugs attacked his team shortly after he concluded a radio interview at Midas FM 90.5. He further accused individuals linked to the Ekiti State Government and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) of facilitating the incident.

However, the Ekiti State Police Command initially described the incident as an altercation between Sowore’s team and unidentified individuals, insisting that officers intervened, rescued those affected and ensured they received medical attention.

The police subsequently confirmed the arrest of 11 suspects in connection with the incident, stating that investigations were ongoing to establish their individual roles and identify other persons involved.

The second incident concerned ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, whose convoy reportedly came under attack while travelling along the Sokoto Airport Road.

Atiku also raised concerns over alleged harassment of ADC supporters by a local security outfit in Sokoto, claiming that some residents had been manhandled for wearing clothing and other materials bearing the party’s insignia.

According to him, the reported incidents reflect an unacceptable pattern of political intimidation capable of undermining democratic participation and weakening public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.

The former vice president called on security agencies to conduct immediate, transparent and independent investigations into both incidents, identify those responsible and ensure they are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also urged President Bola Tinubu to call members and supporters of the ruling party to order, stressing that political competition should never become an excuse for violence against individuals or groups with opposing political views.

Atiku warned that continued attacks on opposition figures, coupled with alleged attempts to silence critical voices, could push Nigeria towards a more restrictive political environment.

He maintained that democracy cannot thrive where citizens are afraid to identify with opposition parties, participate in political campaigns or challenge those in government.

The incidents have renewed concerns about political violence, freedom of association and the protection of opposition parties as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Nigeria’s democratic system guarantees citizens the right to participate in political activities, associate with political organisations and express dissenting opinions without fear of intimidation or violence.

With the next general elections approaching, the responsibility of security agencies to protect all political actors, irrespective of party affiliation, remains particularly important.

While allegations against the APC, government linked individuals and the Sokoto security outfit require thorough independent investigation, the authorities must demonstrate their commitment to accountability by ensuring that political violence does not go unpunished.

Ultimately, the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 elections will depend not only on the conduct of the polls but also on whether political parties, candidates and ordinary citizens can freely participate in the democratic process without fear of attack.