Atiku raised concerns over proposals to halt campaigning in Northern states amid insecurity

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has warned against any move to delay political campaigns in some areas of Northern Nigeria, warning that such moves could erode constitutional rights and raise fears of voter exclusion in a region already grappling with insecurity.

His reaction followed reports that the Senate was considering a proposal to halt political activities in several states affected by increased violence, including Borno State, Benue State and Plateau State.

In a statement issued on Sunday through Senior Special Assistant for Public Communications, Phrank Shaibu, the former presidential candidate described the development as disturbing. While acknowledging the severity of the security crisis, he emphasized that this should not be a justification for limiting democratic participation.

He said, “It must be clearly emphasized that the right to vote and participate in the electoral process is fundamental and cannot be summarized under any guise.

“Any attempt—whether deliberate or covert—to suppress political activity in some areas of Northern Nigeria will raise legitimate concerns about disenfranchisement.”

Atiku also recalled previous intelligence indicating possible efforts to undermine electoral participation in key Northern states, and warned that current proposals appeared to confirm those fears.

“This is not just about a campaign; it is about representation, inclusion and the integrity of our democratic process. You cannot cure insecurity by silencing the voice of the people. Democracy must not be a victim of government failure,” he added.

He emphasized that citizens of the North have the right to adequate security and full participation in the democratic process, and stressed that one must not come at the expense of the other.

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“At a time when citizens are struggling against hardship and insecurity, the least the government can do is guarantee their right to be heard—not limit it. Any policy that creates the appearance of exclusion will only deepen national distrust and divisions,” he warned.

The former vice president further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to clarify their position and assure Nigerians that no region will be denied its constitutional rights.

The debate comes amid growing concerns in the National Assembly over worsening insecurity, particularly in the North East, North West and North Central regions.

Last week, Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central, asked the Senate to consider emergency measures, including the suspension of political activities in states most affected by insurgency and banditry.

Ningi delivered his message at the plenary session, warning that the deteriorating situation requires urgent and decisive steps beyond routine discussions.

He said, “Mr President, we cannot continue to think like that because we are in Abuja, so this (insecurity) has no impact on us.

“One of the things we have to do, and I want us to take this issue very seriously, is to stop all political activities in the country or look at the states that are on the front line like Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi and some areas in Kano. We need to stop activities in these states until we are pretty sure that the challenge of insecurity is over.

“It’s because we’re not dealing with this issue of insecurity at all. And I don’t blame anyone. We can’t come here all the time to lament about it.”

The proposal reflects growing concern over new attacks by Boko Haram insurgents, including coordinated attacks on military formations and increasing threats to rescue efforts of kidnapped civilians.