President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-democratic activities with full force, warning that his administration will not tolerate violence as political campaigns gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu issued the directive in a statement personally signed on Friday, condemning attacks at political events across the country and urging politicians and their supporters to shun violence.
The President said he had been monitoring reports of violent incidents in different parts of the country, stressing that political campaigns should centre on issues and competing ideas capable of promoting public welfare 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.
His reaction follows reports of attacks and political violence in Bauchi, Zamfara, Gombe, Delta, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Edo and, most recently, Lagos State.
Tinubu urged political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly, maintaining that differences in political affiliation and ambitions should not turn Nigerians against one another.
“I have said that being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make us enemies,” he said.
Describing Nigerians as members of the same household living in different rooms, the President said political activities should be driven by the common goal of improving living conditions and advancing the country.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, insisting that all political parties and candidates must be able to campaign anywhere in the country without intimidation or fear for their safety.
Tinubu called on security agencies to take decisive action against individuals seeking to undermine public order.
“We shall not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters,” he warned.
“Security agencies are therefore authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force,” the President added.
