Ex-APC Leader Raises Alarm Over Security Withdrawal for Atiku — Questions Intentions Ahead of 2027

A former chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has expressed grave concern over the reported withdrawal of police protection from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

According to Frank, the timing and circumstances surrounding the move suggest it may be part of a deliberate attempt to expose Atiku to danger  a claim that has stirred political tension ahead of the 2027 election cycle. Independent Newspaper Nigeria

Frank, who once served as Deputy National Publicity Secretary of APC, noted that since 2007 no administration had revoked Atiku’s security detail despite his long-standing role as a prominent opposition voice.

He argued that this makes the current withdrawal  at a time of heightened national insecurity  particularly troubling.

Why Frank Calls It Suspicious

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Frank rejected claims that the withdrawal was part of a general review of VIP security. Instead, he insisted the measure was crafted specifically to target Atiku.

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“This so-called blanket withdrawal is a cover-up,” he said. “The real objective is to isolate and endanger Atiku ahead of the 2027 election.”

He also questioned the composition of the security apparatus, alleging that top positions within the nation’s security agencies are held by individuals perceived as loyal to the current presidency  a factor, he argued, that could turn state institutions into political tools.

Calls for Transparency, International Attention

Frank has called on Nigerians and the international community  including bodies like the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS  to monitor the situation closely.

He said the government should account for the security withdrawal, and if the intent was indeed a nationwide policy, its effects should be universal rather than targeted.

He further warned that the withdrawal creates a “security vacuum” around a major opposition figure at a dangerous time  a move he likens to tactics used to intimidate or neutralise political opponents.

What’s Next: Key Questions to Watch

• Will the authorities clarify whether the security withdrawal applies only to Atiku or to all former VIPs nationwide?

• Will there be official commentary from the security agencies regarding the decision?

• How will this development be viewed by other opposition leaders who depend on similar protection?

• What message does this send to the Nigerian public about the safety and political space for opposition voices?

At a time when many Nigerians are already uneasy about national security, Frank’s warning raises serious concerns about the protection and safety of political actors  especially those viewed as opposition. As he put it:

“If anything happens to Atiku Abubakar, those responsible must be held accountable.”