Arewa group tells Atiku to stop drawing DSS into ADC political disputes

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from involving the Department of State Services (DSS) in partisan political disputes, warning that unsubstantiated allegations could erode public confidence in the security agency.

The group made the call following allegations by Atiku concerning the purported involvement of DSS operatives in efforts to disrupt the political activities of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State.

In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its President, Alhaji Danbature Abdul-Hamid, AYAGL said sensitive national security issues should not be subjected to political arguments without credible evidence to support the claims.

While acknowledging the right of political leaders to demand accountability from public institutions, the organisation maintained that allegations against security agencies should be channelled through appropriate investigative and institutional processes.

It described the DSS as an important component of Nigeria’s internal security structure, responsible for intelligence gathering, addressing threats to national stability and protecting democratic institutions.

AYAGL also praised the agency’s Director-General, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, over what it described as efforts to improve professionalism, accountability, human rights compliance and operational efficiency within the Service.

The group cited the reported rescue of ADC governorship candidate, Mannir Daniya, by DSS operatives during an attack in Sokoto State on October 31. It noted that two personnel of the agency reportedly sustained injuries during the operation.

AYAGL opined that the incident underscores the responsibility of security agencies to protect citizens regardless of their political affiliations.

The organisation expressed concern that recurring political controversies involving security institutions could divert attention from the security challenges confronting Northern Nigeria.

It listed terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and violent extremism among the threats requiring sustained intelligence operations, improved collaboration among security agencies and stronger institutional responses.

The group consequently advised Atiku to submit any concerns about the DSS through established channels rather than allowing the matter to become another subject of partisan exchanges.

It also urged the former Vice-President to address disagreements within the ADC, arguing that political parties should prioritise internal democracy, discipline and unity as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

AYAGL stressed that the DSS was a national institution and should not be identified with any political party or individual, adding that its officers must be allowed to perform their duties impartially and within the law.

The organisation clarified that its defence of the agency should not be interpreted as opposition to legitimate scrutiny, insisting that the DSS must remain accountable, transparent and professional in carrying out its responsibilities.

It urged political actors to focus on policy discussions, leadership ideas and national development rather than actions capable of weakening public trust in institutions responsible for citizens’ safety.

AYAGL maintained that Nigeria needs credible security institutions and responsible political leadership, particularly as the country approaches another general election cycle.