President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to politicians and their supporters against turning political campaigns into battlegrounds, declaring that violence will have no place in Nigeria’s march towards the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to reports of violence surrounding political activities in different parts of the country, Tinubu condemned all forms of political violence and warned that his administration would not tolerate conduct capable of threatening public peace and democratic order.
In a strongly worded statement, the President called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to abandon intimidation, thuggery and confrontation, insisting that the coming elections must be driven by ideas, policies and programmes that improve the lives of Nigerians.
“Our campaigns should be about issues, a contestation of ideas that promote the welfare of our people and the progress of our country,” he declared.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful, free and fair election, urging political leaders across party lines to exercise restraint and demonstrate responsibility as political activities gather momentum ahead of 2027.
The President also challenged politicians to stop treating political opponents as enemies, stressing that differences in party affiliation and political ambition should never become grounds for hostility.
He described Nigerians as members of one household occupying different rooms, arguing that political competition must not destroy the bonds that hold the nation together.
But beyond the appeal for peace, Tinubu delivered a hard-edged message to troublemakers, reiterating his directive to security agencies to deal firmly with anyone seeking to undermine public order.
He authorised security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with what he described as “full force”.
The President further insisted that every political party and candidate must enjoy the freedom to campaign anywhere in Nigeria without harassment, intimidation or fear for personal safety.
He warned that neither politicians nor their supporters would be allowed to hide behind political differences to unleash violence on innocent citizens.
“Our administration is committed to an orderly and peaceful election,” Tinubu said, adding that irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters would not be tolerated.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the President's message carries a clear warning: political ambition must not come at the expense of human lives, public safety and national stability.
The challenge now is whether political actors across the country will heed the warning and allow Nigerians to decide their political future through ballots, not bullets.
Tinubu Warns Politicians Against Violence Ahead of 2027 Elections
