Tinubu tells security forces to fight political violence ahead of 2027 elections

President Bola Tinubu has told security agencies to fight against political thuggery and other actions that threaten democracy as the 2027 general elections approach.

He also warned politicians and their supporters to avoid violence, stating that his government will not accept behavior that disrupts public peace during the election period.

Mr Tinubu made this statement in a release from the State House on Friday. This followed reports of violence during political events across the country.

Electoral violence has been a common issue in Nigeria’s politics. Attacks, intimidation, fights between rival supporters, and destruction of campaign materials often happen during elections.

Reports indicate that recent events have raised alarm. On 28 October, suspected political thugs attacked a convoy of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters heading to a rally in Funtua, Katsina State. A woman was injured, and vehicles were damaged.

On 7 November, a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, left one person dead and five others injured, according to police. On 12 November, thugs disrupted a Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) town hall meeting in Lagos, attacking supporters and damaging vehicles. Similar incidents were reported in Ekiti, Cross River, and Sokoto states.

“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections,” Mr Tinubu said.

He called on political parties to focus on issues and ideas that support the welfare of Nigerians and the country’s growth.

“As the leader of this country, I commit myself to a peaceful, free, and fair election, and I urge political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly,” he said.

Mr Tinubu added that political differences should not make politicians enemies, stressing that all Nigerians are part of the same community.

“I have said that being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make us enemies,” he said.

The president also repeated his earlier order for security agencies to take strong action against anyone trying to disrupt public order.

He insisted that all political parties and candidates must be safe and allowed to campaign freely anywhere in Nigeria without fear or intimidation.

“Our administration is committed to an orderly and peaceful election, and all political parties and candidates should be protected and free to campaign anywhere in the country without molestation or fear for their safety,” he said.

Mr Tinubu stated that security agencies have his permission to use full force against political thuggery and other actions that threaten the electoral process.

“Security agencies are therefore authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force,” he added.

Reports say that following violence incidents, including the destruction of campaign materials in some areas, the police warned last week that anyone involved in such acts would be arrested and prosecuted.