TMS Challenges Atiku Over DSS Protest Claims, Demands Evidence and Impartial Investigation
The Tinubu Movement for Sustainable Governance Foundation (TMS), popularly known as Tinubu Must Stay, has challenged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to substantiate allegations against the Department of State Services (DSS), insisting that claims involving national security institutions must be supported by credible evidence and subjected to an impartial investigation.
In a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communication, Adebisi O. Adams, TMS reacted to reports that Atiku, described by the group as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, accused the DSS of mobilising protesters to disrupt his party’s campaign activities in Sokoto State.
The DSS has denied the allegation and reportedly ordered an investigation into the controversy.
TMS Director-General Marcel Ngogbehei acknowledged the right of political leaders to scrutinise public institutions and demand accountability but cautioned against politicising sensitive national security matters on the basis of unsubstantiated claims.
“These are serious accusations. They deserve credible evidence, due process and an impartial investigation,” Ngogbehei said.
He argued that national security should not be reduced to an instrument of partisan advantage, adding that a former Vice-President should appreciate the potential consequences of serious allegations against institutions responsible for protecting lives and maintaining national security.
TMS also drew attention to the DSS account of an incident involving Sokoto ADC governorship candidate Mannir Daniya on 31 October 2026. According to the account cited by the group, DSS personnel evacuated Daniya to safety after he came under attack, while two operatives were assaulted and required hospital treatment.
The Service also reportedly said Daniya later contacted its Sokoto State Director to express appreciation and request additional reinforcement.
TMS maintained that the account, if established by the investigation, raised questions that should be reconciled with allegations that the same agency was involved in organising disruption against the opposition.
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“Our security agencies carry the enormous responsibility of protecting Nigerians, maintaining public order and safeguarding democratic activities, regardless of political affiliation. Their professionalism, independence and credibility must not become casualties of political competition,” Ngogbehei said.
He welcomed the decision to investigate the allegations and urged Atiku to submit any evidence available to him to the appropriate authorities.
At the same time, the TMS Director-General called on the DSS to ensure that its investigation is thorough, impartial and transparent, with appropriate sanctions where misconduct is established.
“Defending the integrity of our security institutions does not mean placing them above scrutiny. Every credible allegation of misconduct should be investigated, and any officer found culpable should be held accountable,” he said.
Ngogbehei further urged security agencies to maintain strict political neutrality and guarantee equal protection for the lawful activities of all political parties, candidates and supporters. He warned that actual or perceived partisanship by security personnel could undermine public confidence as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also called on political leaders across party lines to exercise restraint when commenting on intelligence and national security matters, arguing that Nigeria’s security challenges require cooperation among state institutions, political stakeholders, communities and citizens.
According to him, credible elections require not only independent electoral institutions but also a secure environment in which political parties can campaign peacefully and citizens can exercise their democratic rights without intimidation.
TMS reaffirmed its commitment to constructive political engagement, institutional accountability and democratic stability, maintaining that competing claims of wrongdoing should ultimately be resolved through evidence, due process and the rule of law.
“Our democracy needs a responsible opposition, professional security agencies and leaders who place the national interest above political differences,” Ngogbehei said.
By PRNigeria
