His statement followed reports that the Senate may be considering the suspension of political activities in eight states including Borno, Benue and Plateau where violence is on the rise.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former presidential candidate described the development as deeply troubling, noting that while insecurity remains a grave national challenge, it must not be used to justify restrictions on democratic participation.
He said, “Let it be clearly stated that 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.”
Atiku recalled earlier intelligence suggesting possible efforts to weaken electoral participation in key Northern states, warning that recent developments appear to reinforce such concerns.
“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 added.
The former vice president stressed that citizens in the North, like their counterparts across the country, deserve both security and full democratic participation, insisting that neither should come at the expense of the other.
He added that it remains the responsibility of the government to guarantee security, just as citizens must be allowed to freely exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.
“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,” he warned.
Atiku further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and the administration of President Bola Tinubu to clarify their positions and reassure Nigerians that no part of the country would be denied its constitutional rights.