Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised an alarm over an alleged plot to disenfranchise voters in eight Northern states under the pretext of rising insecurity. Atiku stated that there are reports indicating the Nigerian Senate is considering the suspension of political campaigns in these states. He described the development as deeply troubling and fraught with dangerous implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
Atiku’s Statement on Voter Disenfranchisement
Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, made this known in a statement issued on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Atiku emphasized that insecurity must never become a convenient justification for undermining constitutional rights or selectively restricting democratic participation. He said, “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 recalled that credible intelligence had earlier pointed to possible plans to weaken electoral participation in key Northern states. The 2027 ADC presidential aspirant warned that recent developments appear to be lending credence to those fears. He added, “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.”
Call for Government Assurance
Atiku urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to reassure Nigerians that no region will be denied its constitutional rights. He stressed that it is the responsibility of the government to provide security for its citizens, while it remains the duty of citizens to freely exercise their civic rights without fear, intimidation, or unlawful restriction. “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 said.
Atiku Criticizes Tinubu Over Loan Request
In a related development, Atiku criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over a $516 million external loan request for the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway project. The former vice president warned against prioritizing borrowing over responsible governance and sustainable development. He urged federal lawmakers to scrutinize loan terms for the benefit of Nigerians.
Demands for Electoral Reform
Atiku also called for urgent reform of the Electoral Act, expressing concerns that Section 63 could undermine future election credibility. His media aide, Phrank Shaibu, stated that the former vice president warned that discretionary ballot validation posed a serious risk to electoral integrity. Atiku urged the National Assembly, INEC, and President Tinubu to close legal loopholes and strengthen safeguards ahead of the 2027 polls.
