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Atiku’s Security Withdrawal Sparks Political Controversy

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has raised strong concerns over the withdrawal of police operatives from the security detail of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the move as dangerous and politically motivated.

The withdrawal followed President Bola Tinubu’s November 23 directive ordering police personnel assigned to VIPs nationwide to return to regular policing duties. The directive affected several high-profile individuals, including former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and 17 others.

Frank, in a statement on Tuesday, criticised the decision as abrupt and ill-timed, alleging that it exposes the former vice president to heightened security risks. He claimed the action could be part of a wider political plot ahead of the 2027 general elections—an allegation the Presidency has not responded to.

“No administration since 2007 has ever tampered with Atiku Abubakar’s security despite his prominence as a major opposition figure. Why now, at a time when insecurity is at an alarming level across the country? The motive behind this action is deeply suspect,” he said.

Frank further described the directive as a “blanket withdrawal” masking what he alleged to be a deliberate attempt to isolate and endanger Atiku. According to him, the former vice president is legally entitled to police protection in line with established national security protocols.

He also accused President Tinubu of following a troubling pattern seen in parts of Africa, where incumbents allegedly use state institutions to suppress political opponents. “Atiku has been outspoken about the shortcomings of this administration. This move appears more like a political witch-hunt than a routine security adjustment,” Frank claimed.

Atiku, who served as vice president from 1999 to 2007, has repeatedly contested for the presidency but has yet to declare whether he will run in 2027. Nevertheless, political observers believe he remains a key opposition figure.

Frank also questioned recent security appointments, alleging ethnic bias, and challenged the President to extend the security withdrawal to his own associates if the directive is truly impartial.

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