Tinubu Directs Security Agencies to Crush Political Thuggery Ahead of 2027 Elections

By Marian Alekhue

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security agencies to confront political thuggery, electoral violence and other anti-democratic activities with full force ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The President, who condemned recent incidents of violence associated with political activities in different parts of the country, warned politicians and their supporters against actions capable of threatening public peace and undermining the democratic process.

Tinubu gave the directive in a statement issued on Friday, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections across the country.

He specifically instructed security agencies to deal decisively with individuals and groups seeking to disrupt public order through violence, intimidation and other unlawful activities.

“I want to reiterate my previous directive to the security agencies: be strict and firm against anyone who seeks to test our resolve and will to preserve public order,” the President said.

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

The President stressed that violence had no place in political campaigns, particularly as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections.

He urged political parties and their candidates to focus their campaigns on policies, ideas and programmes capable of improving the living conditions of Nigerians and advancing 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 declared.

Tinubu also appealed to political leaders and their supporters across party lines to demonstrate restraint and responsibility, warning against allowing political differences and competing ambitions to create hostility among Nigerians.

According to him, belonging to different political parties does not make citizens enemies, stressing that Nigerians remain members of one national household despite their political differences.

“As Nigerians, we are members of the same household living in different rooms. Therefore, our politics must elevate human conditions and focus on national progress and development,” he said.

The President further assured political parties and candidates of adequate security, insisting that all political actors must be allowed to campaign freely in every part of the country without intimidation, harassment or threats to their safety.

“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 stated.

Tinubu warned that his administration would not tolerate irresponsible political conduct, urging politicians, party supporters and other stakeholders to ensure that political activities remain peaceful as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.