Reps to Look into Violence at Political Rallies

The House of Representatives has decided to look into the rising cases of violence during political campaigns in Nigeria. This follows reports of attacks, injuries, deaths, and disruption of political events in various states.

This resolution was made on Thursday after a motion of urgent public importance was sponsored by Minority Leader Frederick Agbedi (PDP Bayelsa) along with 16 other lawmakers.

The co-sponsors include Abdussamad Dasuki, Mansur Soro, George Ozodinobi, Aliyu Madaki, Usman Kumo, Sada Soli, Benedict Etanabene, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Bamidele Salam, Abdulmumin Mohammed, Adamu Ranga, Munachim Alozie, Uchenna Okonkwo, Obordor Mitema, Marie Ebikake, and Dominic Okafor.

The motion, called Need to Arrest the Rising Violence During Political Campaign Activities, aims to find the causes of political violence and suggest ways to stop further attacks as political activities heat up ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In leading the debate, Mr Agbedi said attacks, intimidation, and property damage linked to political activities might stop citizens from taking part in elections and weaken public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.

He mentioned several incidents in the country, like the disruption of political meetings in Enugu State on September 12, where police reported that two attendees were injured and one person was killed.

He also recalled an attack on All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters traveling to a rally in Katsina State on October 28, where police arrested 14 suspects.

Other incidents included violence at an APC rally in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on November 4, where several people were injured, and an attack during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, on November 7, which police said left one person dead and five others injured.

Mr Agbedi also raised concerns about reported violence in Calabar, Cross River State.

He stated that these incidents threaten citizens’ rights to gather freely and assemble peacefully.

He referred to Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees everyone the right to assemble freely and join others, including forming or belonging to a political party.

He mentioned Section 14(2)(b), which states that the security and welfare of the people should be the main focus of government.

Mr Agbedi said the attacks could have serious effects on political participation and the reliability of the electoral process.

“Attacks, intimidation, and destruction of property linked to political activities may cause more loss of life and injury, discourage citizens from joining lawful political activities, and weaken public trust in the electoral process,” he said.

He also pointed out Section 88(1) of the Constitution, which allows the National Assembly to investigate issues within its power and how public authorities manage laws.

But he warned against blaming anyone for the incidents without proper investigation, stressing that claims must be backed by reliable, evidence-based inquiries.

In its resolutions, the House condemned all acts of violence, intimidation, assault, and destruction of property related to political rallies, processions, meetings, and other lawful political activities, regardless of the political parties or individuals involved.

It also urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to reject inflammatory language, discourage violence, and work with security agencies to keep public order.

The House adopted the motion without debate and decided to create a committee made up of the Committees on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence. This committee will investigate the immediate and deeper causes of political violence across the country.

The committee will be led by a key officer of the House and must submit its findings within three weeks.

This motion comes as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties and their supporters organizing more rallies, meetings, and mobilization events across Nigeria.

Yet, clashes between rival supporters, attacks on political gatherings, and property destruction remain frequent issues during election seasons in Nigeria. This raises concerns about the safety of politicians, supporters, and citizens taking part in the democratic process.

The lawmakers believe their proposed investigation will help uncover what happened during the latest incidents and suggest ways to prevent further violence.