Timi Frank has appealed to US President Donald Trump, the United Nations and other international bodies to intervene diplomatically over alleged threats to Atiku Abubakar ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Frank, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made the appeal in an open letter addressed to Trump and other international leaders on Monday.
He urged the United States, the UN, the African Union (AU), ECOWAS, the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom to engage the Nigerian government over concerns about the safety and political rights of opposition figures.
Frank said international partners should seek assurances that Atiku and other opposition leaders could participate in the electoral process without intimidation, unlawful detention or restrictions on their political activities.
He stressed that the allegations should be investigated urgently, warning against waiting for an incident before taking preventive action.
Timi Frank Raises Concerns Over Atiku’s Safety
Frank argued that the government has a responsibility to protect the rights and safety of political opponents, regardless of their party affiliations or criticism of those in power.
He maintained that opposition figures should be able to express their views, participate in political activities and contest elections without fear.
According to him, protecting political opponents is a fundamental responsibility of a democratic government, not a privilege that can be granted or withdrawn.
Frank also called for an independent investigation into the allegations surrounding Atiku’s safety. However, the claims in his letter have not been independently established by the information provided in the report.
EFCC Investigations Feature in Frank’s Concerns
The former APC spokesman expressed concern about the possible use of anti-corruption agencies against opposition politicians.
He specifically mentioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), saying he feared that proceedings involving Atiku could result in arrest or prolonged detention during the election campaign.
Frank clarified that he was not demanding immunity for Atiku or any other politician. Instead, he said investigations should be based on credible evidence and conducted according to the law.
He argued that law enforcement agencies must remain independent and avoid actions that could create the impression of politically motivated investigations.
Frank also questioned what he described as selective enforcement of anti-corruption laws. He said public confidence in the EFCC depends on its willingness to investigate allegations fairly, regardless of the political status of those involved.
Frank Questions Political Statements Ahead of 2027
Frank also referred to comments attributed to prominent political figures, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
He argued that statements interpreted as suggesting a predetermined election outcome could raise concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.
According to Frank, no party or public official should determine an election outcome before Nigerians cast their votes.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to protect the electoral process and ensure that political parties can campaign freely.
He also called for credible and independent election observation missions before, during and after the 2027 polls.
Trump, UN Urged to Support Credible Elections
Frank asked international partners to begin diplomatic engagement before political tensions escalate.
He said election observers should pay attention to political violence, voter intimidation, restrictions on campaigns, the conduct of security agencies and the transparency of electoral procedures.
According to him, preventive diplomacy could help reduce tensions, reassure political actors and strengthen public confidence in the election.
Frank insisted that his appeal was not an attempt to ask foreign governments to decide who should lead Nigeria.
He said the choice of the country’s next president belongs to Nigerian voters, while international partners should help support conditions that allow them to make that choice freely.
Frank Warns Against Possible Political Crisis
Frank warned that electoral injustice, or the perception that political competition was being restricted, could deepen public distrust and threaten national stability.
He also argued that a serious political crisis in Nigeria could affect the wider West African region because of the country’s regional influence.
He called on the Federal Government to provide credible assurances regarding the safety of Atiku and other opposition leaders as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.
Frank concluded by urging international governments and institutions to treat the protection of opposition figures and the integrity of Nigeria’s elections as urgent priorities.
He warned that the international community should not wait for a tragedy before taking action.