The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council has denied allegations of a plot to assassinate former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, insisting that the opposition politician continues to receive security protection.
The council rejected the allegation on Tuesday, October 20, following concerns raised by Timi Frank, a former APC deputy national publicity secretary, who alleged that Atiku faced a threat to his life.
Atiku is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dele Alake, the APC Presidential Campaign Council dismissed the allegation and challenged Frank to present any evidence of a credible threat to the appropriate security agencies.
The council said Atiku’s security personnel had not been withdrawn and maintained that he continued to receive protection from the police and the State Security Service.
Council Says Security Protection Remains in Place
According to the council, President Bola Tinubu had directed security agencies to strengthen protection for presidential, vice-presidential, governorship and deputy governorship candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
The council said concerns about threats to political candidates should be treated seriously but insisted that allegations of an assassination plot must be supported by credible evidence.
It urged Frank to provide any information in his possession to security authorities for investigation.
The council did not provide further details about the alleged threat or publish independent evidence establishing the precise status of Atiku’s security arrangements.
Allegations Require Investigation and Evidence
The allegation comes as political parties and their candidates prepare for a highly contested election cycle.
The safety of candidates is a matter of public interest, particularly where claims involve potential violence or threats against political opponents. However, an allegation of an assassination plot is a serious claim that requires verification by competent authorities.
The APC council’s denial represents its position on the matter; it does not, by itself, establish whether any threat was made or whether an investigation has been conducted.
Similarly, Frank’s allegation should not be treated as proof of an assassination plan without corroborating evidence.
As political activity intensifies, security agencies will be expected to assess any credible information, investigate reported threats and ensure that candidates can participate in the electoral process without intimidation or violence.