The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force have vowed to clamp down on politicians and other individuals issuing threats, inflammatory remarks and inciting statements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The warning comes amid growing political activities and concerns over statements by some political actors that could heighten tension as parties intensify their mobilisation for the elections.
Recent controversial remarks by political figures and government officials have renewed concerns about the potential escalation of political violence ahead of the polls.
Among the incidents cited was a statement by former Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Buba Galadima, who reportedly urged Nigerians to go to polling units with “bottles and jerry cans of kerosene” during the 2027 elections.
In the Federal Capital Territory, the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo, was reported to have threatened that non-supporters of the All Progressives Congress should leave the council area.
Similarly, Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, reportedly threatened that those who refused to support the APC in the 2027 elections would be flogged.
In Ebonyi State, the newly inaugurated Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Eze Ituma, warned opposition parties and their supporters against conducting political activities in the council.
Meanwhile, Yobe State APC Chairman, Muhammad Gadaka, sparked controversy after reportedly urging married women whose husbands prevented them from voting for the party to seek divorce.
The statements have heightened concerns among stakeholders over the possibility of increased political tension and violence as the 2027 elections draw closer.
Electoral Act Prohibits Threats
The Electoral Act 2026 prohibits threats, intimidation and the use of force or violence during political campaigns.
Section 97(1) of the Act provides that political parties, candidates, aspirants, individuals or groups must not directly or indirectly threaten another person with force or violence during a campaign to compel them to support or reject a political party or candidate.
The law also criminalises the use of threats, force, violence or restraint to influence voting.
Under the provisions of the Act, candidates found guilty of such offences may face a fine of up to N5 million or imprisonment for up to 12 months, while political parties may be fined N10 million for a first offence and N2 million for subsequent offences.
Police Promise Enforcement
The police have also pledged to take action against politicians and other individuals whose comments could inflame political tensions ahead of the elections.
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Iniedu, said the force would embark on public enlightenment campaigns across its commands to sensitise officers and Nigerians on the dangers of inciting and inflammatory statements.
“One of the things we’re going to do is enlightenment across all commands concerning inciting and inflammatory comments. Incitement is a criminal offence and we will not spare anyone trying to heat up the politics with inciteful comments,” he said.
The police said the measures were part of broader efforts to prevent political violence and ensure a peaceful electoral environment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
