As the 2027 general elections draw closer, concerns are mounting over threats allegedly issued by some leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, against opposition politicians and supporters in different parts of Nigeria.
Reports have highlighted incidents involving political figures in Borno, the Federal Capital Territory, Ebonyi and other states, with some remarks interpreted by opposition groups and civil society organisations as threats of violence, exclusion or political punishment.
In Borno State, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, reportedly warned residents who refused to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. Amnesty International Nigeria subsequently condemned the remarks and called for an investigation, while the commissioner said he had been quoted out of context.
A similar controversy emerged in Kuje, Abuja, where the chairman of the area council, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, reportedly told residents they should support the APC or leave the area. The National Human Rights Commission described the remarks as intimidating and called for investigation by relevant authorities.
In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru was reported to have warned local government chairmen about the consequences of the APC losing their respective areas in the 2027 elections. The chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Paul Ituma, also reportedly warned opposition politicians against operating in the council area.
The Ebonyi State Police Command subsequently held a stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of political parties and other officials. According to the police spokesperson, participants agreed to tone down their rhetoric against political opponents.
The developments have raised concerns about political intimidation and the safety of opposition politicians as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
The concerns are coming despite the National Peace Accord signed by major political parties ahead of the elections, which committed political actors to peaceful and issue-based campaigns.
Political parties and civil society organisations have continued to call on security agencies to ensure that all citizens are allowed to participate in the electoral process without intimidation or threats.
The 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
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