…Says, no matter how toxic campaign gets, no candidate should face threats
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Department of State Services (DSS), to immediately provide comprehensive security cover for all presidential candidates and their running mates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Following the directive, the DSS is expected to liaise with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and state governments in order to coordinate the deployment and to monitor threat levels during and immediately after the 2027 general elections.
The directive which was issued on Thursday, September 3, 2026, extends to the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, that of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi and his running mate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and all the other presidential candidates on the ballot.
Accordingly, the DSS has commenced the deployment of operatives assigned for protective duties around the candidates, even as some of the candidates have submitted specifications for their preferred security architecture, which the Secret police is reviewing for consideration.
It was gathered that the security arrangement will not be limited to the presidential candidates alone as Governorship candidates and their deputies nationwide are also expected to enjoy the DSS cover throughout the electioneering period.
Similarly, candidates contesting National Assembly and State House of Assembly seats in areas identified as potential flashpoints will receive increased security attention.
The source within the Presidency also said that States identified as likely flashpoints have been placed under surveillance for National Assembly and State House of Assembly Elections with a view to ensure a campaign free of inhibitions and a hitch-free election.
The presidential directive comes as political activities intensify ahead of the January 2027 polls just as political parties have increased the tempo of their activities, strategy meetings and planning of campaign rallies.
Already, Security agencies have flagged concerns over political violence, intimidation and attacks on campaign convoys in previous election cycles.
