President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-democratic activities with full force as concerns over electoral violence grow ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The President issued the directive on Friday, November 13, while condemning attacks and violent incidents linked to political activities in different parts of the country. He warned politicians and their supporters against actions that could threaten public order or discourage Nigerians from participating in the democratic process.
In a statement personally signed by him, Tinubu stressed that political campaigns should focus on policies, competing ideas and programmes that improve the welfare of citizens rather than intimidation and hostility.
He also called on political leaders across party lines to demonstrate responsibility, noting that differences in political affiliation and ambition should not turn Nigerians against one another.
Furthermore, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peaceful, free and fair elections, insisting that every political party and candidate must enjoy the freedom to campaign anywhere in the country without fear of harassment or attacks.
Tinubu Warns Politicians Against Electoral Violence
Tinubu’s directive comes amid reports of attacks on political gatherings, campaign activities and supporters of different political groups across Nigeria.
The President said he had followed reports of violence accompanying political events in several states and maintained that such incidents had no place in the country’s democratic process.
He also reiterated an earlier instruction to security agencies to remain strict against individuals and groups seeking to undermine public order, particularly as political activities increase before the next general elections.
According to the President, his administration would not tolerate irresponsible conduct from politicians or their supporters, regardless of their political affiliations.
He further explained that political campaigns should provide opportunities for candidates to present their ideas and discuss issues affecting Nigerians. Therefore, political disagreements should not become excuses for violence, destruction of property or intimidation.
Tinubu also described Nigerians as members of the same national community despite their different political interests. He urged political actors to prioritise national development and the welfare of citizens throughout the electioneering period.
His warning places responsibility on security agencies to protect political activities while ensuring that individuals who commit acts of violence face appropriate legal consequences.
Lagos NDC Attack Raises Fresh Concerns Over 2027 Elections
The President’s warning follows several reported incidents of political violence, including an attack on a Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) town hall meeting in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State, on Thursday, November 12.
According to reports, suspected political thugs disrupted the gathering and attacked supporters, leaving several people injured and vehicles damaged. The incident attracted attention from political stakeholders and renewed concerns about the safety of opposition activities.
The attack also came after other incidents involving political supporters in different parts of the country.
Premium Times reported that suspected political thugs attacked a convoy conveying All Progressives Congress supporters to a rally in Funtua, Katsina State, on October 28, leaving a woman injured and damaging vehicles.
Similarly, violence during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, on November 7, reportedly left one person dead and five others injured, according to the police.
These incidents have increased concerns about the security of political gatherings as parties prepare for the 2027 elections. However, authorities must establish responsibility through proper investigations rather than relying on political accusations.
Meanwhile, Tinubu’s latest directive has renewed attention on the need for impartial security operations and effective enforcement of electoral laws.
As political activities continue across the country, security agencies will face the responsibility of protecting candidates, supporters and members of the public while responding to threats against peaceful political participation.
The coming months will also test how effectively authorities implement the President’s directive and prevent further violence during the build-up to the 2027 general elections.