2027: Tinubu condemns political violence, orders security agencies to act
By Anthonia Okonkwo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the growing incidents of political violence across the country, warning politicians and their supporters against engaging in thuggery as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
The president made his position known in a statement he personally signed on Friday, following reports of violence accompanying political activities in different parts of the country.
Tinubu stressed that violence should have no place in political campaigns, insisting that electioneering activities should focus on issues, policies and ideas capable of promoting the welfare of Nigerians and national development.
“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections,” he said.
The president reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, urging political leaders and their supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.
He also reminded politicians that belonging to different political parties or pursuing different political ambitions should not make Nigerians enemies, describing the country as one household whose members occupy different rooms.
Furthermore, Tinubu reiterated his directive to security agencies to remain strict and firm against anyone attempting to undermine public order.
He maintained that all political parties and candidates must be protected and allowed to campaign anywhere in the country without intimidation or fear for their safety.
“We shall not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters,” the president warned, authorising security agencies to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force.
The statement comes amid reported attacks and disruptions at political gatherings in several states, raising concerns about the safety of political actors and supporters ahead of the 2027 elections.
