JUST IN: Tinubu orders security agencies to crush political thuggery ahead of 2027 elections

President Bola Tinubu has cautioned politicians and their supporters against engaging in violence as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections.

The president, in a statement personally signed on Friday, said security agencies had been directed to deal firmly with political thuggery and other activities capable of undermining democracy.

Tinubu expressed concern over recent reports of violent incidents at political gatherings in different parts of the country, stressing that such actions had no place in a democratic society.

He urged political parties and their supporters to focus their campaigns on issues that address the welfare of Nigerians and promote national development rather than resorting to violence.

The president further emphasised that political campaigns must be peaceful, warning that violence and other anti-democratic practices would not be tolerated.

“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 statement reads.

Tinubu said political campaigns should be driven by a contest of ideas rather than hostility among parties and their supporters.

“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.

The president pledged his commitment to a peaceful, free and fair election, urging political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.

He said belonging to different political parties or pursuing different ambitions should not make Nigerians enemies.

“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.

Tinubu also reiterated his directive to security agencies to act firmly against anyone seeking to undermine public order.

“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,” he said.

He added that all political parties and candidates should be able to campaign anywhere in the country without intimidation or fear for 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 said.

Tinubu warned that his administration would not tolerate irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters.

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

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