President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to take decisive action against political thuggery, violence and other activities capable of threatening public peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President condemned the increasing incidents of violence at political gatherings across the country, warning politicians and their supporters against engaging in acts capable of undermining the electoral process.
Tinubu made the position known in a statement personally signed by him on Friday, November 13, 2026, following reports of attacks and disruptions at political events in different parts of the country.
He maintained that political campaigns should be driven by ideas, policies and programmes that promote public welfare and national development rather than violence and intimidation.
“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections,” the President stated.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, urging political leaders, party members and supporters to demonstrate restraint and conduct themselves responsibly, irrespective of their political affiliations.
He stressed that political differences should not turn Nigerians against one another, noting that all citizens belong to the same national community despite their differing political interests.
The President also reiterated his directive to security agencies to deal firmly with individuals or groups seeking to disrupt public order.
According to him, all political parties and candidates must be allowed to campaign freely in any part of the country without intimidation, harassment or fear for their safety.
“We shall not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters,” he warned.
He further authorised security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force.
Series of Political Attacks Raise Concern
The presidential warning comes amid growing reports of attacks on political candidates, supporters and party gatherings across different states.
In Gombe State, the convoy of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami, was reportedly attacked by suspected political thugs during a visit to the state.
Similarly, the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Dan’iya, accused security personnel of attacking his convoy near the Sokoto Airport. However, the allegation was dismissed by the ruling All Progressives Congress in the state.
In another incident, the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was attacked in Calabar, Cross River State, on November 4. The police subsequently arrested a suspect in connection with the incident.
Also, suspected political thugs reportedly invaded an NDC town hall meeting venue in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State, on Thursday, November 12, disrupting the gathering and attacking supporters.
Against the backdrop of these incidents, Tinubu called on political actors to prioritise peaceful engagement, issue-based campaigns and national development as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He emphasised that political competition must not become an avenue for violence, intimidation or the endangerment of innocent citizens.
