Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced serious concern over claims that the Nigerian Senate is considering the suspension of political campaigns in eight Northern states over worsening insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the reported move as troubling and dangerous for Nigeria’s democratic system.
He acknowledged that insecurity remains a major national challenge requiring urgent and decisive action, but warned that it must not be used as a reason to weaken constitutional rights or selectively limit 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.
The former vice president said credible intelligence had earlier suggested possible efforts to reduce electoral participation in strategic Northern states, adding that recent developments appear to support those concerns.
“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.
Atiku maintained that citizens in Northern Nigeria, like those in every part of the country, deserve both security and full democratic participation, stressing that one should not come at the expense of the other.
He said it is the duty of government to secure lives and property, while citizens must be allowed to exercise their civic rights freely, without fear, intimidation or unlawful restrictions.
“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.
Atiku called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately clarify their positions and assure Nigerians that no part of the country would 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.
Northern Nigeria has continued to face security pressures in recent years, with several states including Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Borno and parts of Kwara recording incidents of kidnapping, banditry and terrorism despite ongoing security operations.
