Atiku Warns Against Campaign Suspension in Northern States

By Chisom Adaeze

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised strong objections to proposals aimed at suspending political campaigns in parts of Northern Nigeria, warning that such a move could undermine constitutional rights and deepen fears of political exclusion.

Atiku’s reaction follows growing discussions within the National Assembly over the possibility of halting political activities in states heavily affected by insecurity, including Borno, Benue, Plateau, and others. The proposal comes amid renewed violence in parts of the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the presidential hopeful under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) described the development as “deeply troubling,” stressing that insecurity must not be used as a justification to suppress democratic participation.

“Democracy Must Not Be Silenced”

Atiku emphasized that the right to vote and participate in the electoral process remains a fundamental pillar of democracy.

“Any attempt—whether deliberate or disguised—to suppress political activities in parts of Northern Nigeria raises legitimate concerns about disenfranchisement,” he stated.

He warned that restricting campaigns in specific regions could create the impression of targeted exclusion, potentially worsening distrust and division in an already fragile political climate.

According to him, the issue goes beyond campaign activities and touches on broader concerns of representation, inclusion, and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.

Security vs Democratic Rights

While acknowledging the severity of Nigeria’s security challenges, Atiku insisted that citizens should not be forced to choose between safety and their democratic rights.

He argued that it is the responsibility of the government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to ensure both security and the protection of civil liberties.

“You cannot cure insecurity by silencing the voices of the people,” Atiku said, adding that democracy must not become a casualty of government shortcomings.

He further noted that citizens in Northern Nigeria deserve the same level of political participation as those in other parts of the country, despite the ongoing threats posed by insurgency and banditry.

Calls for Clarity and Assurance

The former vice president called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the federal government to clearly state their positions on the issue.

He urged authorities to reassure Nigerians that no region would be denied its constitutional rights, especially as preparations for future elections intensify.

“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 restrict it,” he warned.

Senate Proposal Sparks Debate

The controversy gained momentum after Senator Abdul Ningi raised the issue on the Senate floor, calling for urgent and decisive measures to address worsening insecurity.

Ningi suggested that the government consider suspending political activities either nationwide or in frontline states such as Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kano until the security situation improves.

According to him, the scale of violence—driven by insurgent groups like Boko Haram and armed bandits—requires extraordinary intervention beyond routine political discourse.

“We cannot continue to act as though insecurity does not affect us. We need bold steps to address the crisis,” he said during plenary.

Rising Insecurity Concerns

The debate comes amid a resurgence of attacks in Northern Nigeria, including coordinated assaults on military formations and increasing threats to civilian populations.

Security experts have warned that continued instability could disrupt electoral processes and weaken public confidence in democratic institutions if not properly managed.

However, Atiku’s intervention underscores a competing concern: that measures taken in the name of security must not erode the very democratic principles they seek to protect.

A Delicate Balancing Act

As Nigeria navigates its complex security and political challenges, the question remains how to balance urgent security needs with the preservation of democratic freedoms.

For many observers, the unfolding debate signals a critical moment in the country’s democratic journey—one that will test the commitment of its leaders to both security and constitutional governance.