2027: Atiku Raises Concerns Over Alleged Plot to Disenfranchise Northern Voters

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed concern over reports that the Senate may consider suspending political campaigns in eight Northern states over worsening insecurity, warning that such a move could disenfranchise voters and undermine the electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued Sunday through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said any proposal to restrict political activities in parts of the country raises serious constitutional and democratic concerns.

He argued that while insecurity remains a major national challenge, it should not be used to limit citizens’ participation in the electoral process.

“The right to vote and participate in the electoral process is fundamental and cannot be abridged under any guise,” Atiku said, describing the reported plan as “deeply troubling.”

He said concerns over possible voter suppression in key Northern states had been raised in the past, adding that recent developments appear to have renewed those fears.

According to him, the issue extends beyond campaign activities and touches on broader questions of representation, inclusion and electoral credibility.

Atiku maintained that suspending campaigns would not address insecurity and warned against policies that could be perceived as excluding particular regions from the democratic process.

He said citizens should not be forced to choose between security and their voting rights, insisting both must be protected.

The former presidential candidate also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to clarify their positions and assure Nigerians that no region would be denied full participation in the 2027 elections.

He warned that any measure seen as targeting specific parts of the country could deepen mistrust and worsen divisions.

Atiku further urged stakeholders to uphold fairness, equity and national unity, stressing the need for an inclusive and credible electoral process.

His comments follow reports of a possible Senate move to halt political campaigns in some states affected by insecurity, though no formal decision has been announced.