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The Nigeria Police Force and the National Peace Committee have escalated monitoring and enforcement measures to curb political intimidation as campaigning intensifies for the 2027 general elections.
Police investigators opened formal probes into controversial, inciting statements made by Borno State Commissioner Sainna Buba, Kuje Area Council Chairman Samuel Shekwolo, and Senator Francis Fadahunsi.
Meanwhile, the National Peace Committee activated an Electoral Offences Tracking System and a dedicated situation room to track political accord violations, violent incidents, and anti-democratic conduct ahead of the polls.
The investigations follow multiple viral incidents involving threats and political violence across the country.
In Kuje, armed thugs recently attacked an Accord Party meeting days after Shekwolo publicly warned non-APC supporters to “either do APC or leave the area council.”
In Osun State, police questioned Senator Fadahunsi after a viral video captured him urging supporters to target rival party members, declaring, “If we see them, it is killing.”
Furthermore, Commissioner Buba drew sharp criticism after threatening to flog and maim residents who refuse to support the ruling party in 2027.
Opposition parties launched severe criticisms against the ruling All Progressives Congress, accusing leadership of using violent intimidation to cow voters because they fear losing a transparent election.
Investigating All Inciting Statements
Peoples Democratic Party spokesperson Ini Ememobong stated, “The attacks and threats are a clear indication of the rejection that they are already aware of,” while National Democratic Congress spokesperson Osa Director warned that “democracy is under siege in Nigeria.”
In response, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim dismissed the accusations as unproven, arguing, “It beats common sense that a party in power will want to create anarchy.”
Amid the rising tensions, police spokesman Ani Iniedu confirmed that authorities are actively investigating all inciting statements and 154 suspects arrested during the recent Osun State governorship election.
“It is criminal to incite members of the public, especially as you comment on the electoral process,” Iniedu emphasised, noting that the police force “will not shy away from this responsibility, no matter whose ox is gored.”
Peace Committee Head of Secretariat Fr Atta Barkindo confirmed that documented violations will be turned over to security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission, while the committee continues advocating for an official Electoral Offences Commission.
