2027 elections: Tinubu orders security agencies to crush political thuggery

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

The President also warned politicians and their supporters against violence, declaring that his administration would not tolerate actions capable of undermining peaceful political campaigns.

Tinubu gave the directive in a statement personally signed by him on Friday in Abuja, following reports of violence at political events across the country.

“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.

The President urged political parties and their supporters to focus their campaigns on issues and ideas that promote public welfare and national development.

“Our campaigns should be about issues, a contestation of ideas that promote the welfare of our people and the progress of our country,” he said.

Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, urging political leaders across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.

He stressed that political differences and competing ambitions should not turn Nigerians into enemies.

“Being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make us enemies,” he said.

Tinubu flags off $3.5bn Bakassi deep seaport construction

The President likened Nigerians to members of the same household living in different rooms, insisting that politics should advance human welfare and national progress.

He reiterated his directive to security agencies to remain firm against individuals seeking to undermine public order.

Tinubu also said all political parties and candidates must be protected and allowed to campaign freely anywhere in the country without intimidation or threats to their safety.

“Security agencies are therefore authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force,” he said.