*Urge him to desist from phantom allegations
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has denied allegations that the Federal Government is plotting to assassinate former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the claim as false and unfounded.
The council also dismissed claims that security personnel attached to Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, had been withdrawn, insisting that his security arrangements remained intact.
In a press statement dated October 20, 2026, and signed by its spokesperson, Dele Alake, the council said the allegation was made by Timi Frank, a member of the ADC, and challenged him to provide evidence to substantiate the claim.
The council urged security agencies to invite Frank for questioning, stressing that any credible threat to life should be investigated promptly, irrespective of political affiliation.
It also called on Frank to provide any information in his possession that could assist security agencies in investigating the allegation.
“We categorically reject the claim that the presidency of Nigeria or the APC Campaign Council is involved in any plot to assassinate former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any opposition figure,” the statement said.
The council maintained that Atiku remained protected by the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), adding that President Bola Tinubu had directed security agencies to strengthen protection for political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the statement, the president recently ordered increased security for presidential, vice-presidential, governorship and deputy governorship candidates across the country.
It further claimed that Atiku, as a former vice president and a presidential candidate, enjoys two levels of state-funded security protection, adding that his security arrangements had been reinforced ahead of the next general elections.
The council described Tinubu as a statesman and committed democrat who recognises opposition politics as an essential component of Nigeria’s democracy.
It recalled the president’s role in opposition politics before the APC defeated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general election, arguing that his political history demonstrated his recognition of democratic competition.
However, the council accused Frank of making provocative statements capable of heightening political tension, alleging that some opposition figures frequently issue open letters and make social media appeals to foreign leaders and international organisations to attract attention.
It warned that political actors could resort to sensational claims as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
The council urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint and ensure that public statements are factual and responsible.
It also called for peaceful and lawful political competition, urging politicians to focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal attacks and unsubstantiated allegations.
The statement was signed by Alake in his capacity as spokesperson for the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
