Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a proposal to suspend political campaigns in parts of northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that it could undermine democratic participation.

The proposal, raised in the Senate by Abdul Ningi, suggests halting campaigns in Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kano due to worsening insecurity.

Atiku, in a statement issued by his aide Phrank Shaibu, said,

“Let it be clearly stated: the right to vote and participate in the electoral process is fundamental and cannot be abridged under any guise. Any attempt, whether deliberate or disguised, to suppress political activities in parts of Northern Nigeria raises legitimate concerns about disenfranchisement.”

Ningi had defended the proposal, citing insurgency, banditry, and terrorism as threats to credible elections in the region.
However, Atiku rejected the argument, stating that insecurity reflects governance challenges and should not be used to limit democratic rights.

“This is not merely about campaigns; it is about representation, inclusion, and the integrity of our democratic process. You cannot cure insecurity by silencing the voices of the people. Democracy must not become a casualty of government failure,” he said.

He further warned,

“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 to restrict it. Any policy that creates the impression of targeted exclusion will only deepen distrust and national division.”

The former vice president added that no region should be excluded from the electoral process due to security challenges, stressing that elections must not be shaped by fear or administrative restrictions.