The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has warned Nigerian political leaders against threats, intimidation and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying such conduct could heighten tensions and trigger electoral violence.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by the organisation’s General Secretary, Joel Odigie, through its peace and security early warning mechanism.
Odigie expressed concern over increasingly inflammatory political rhetoric as the country approaches the elections. He cited recent remarks attributed to Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, which reportedly referenced “AK-47 fire” against individuals perceived to be obstructing the party’s electoral ambitions.
“Threats, incitement and intimidation from any political actor must attract the same scrutiny, irrespective of political affiliation, party or individual involved in the alleged conduct,” Odigie said.
“Nigeria’s elections must be a contest of ideas, policies and visions, not threats, weapons and fear.”
Security Agencies Urged to Act
The ITUC-Africa leader called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to investigate credible allegations of threats of electoral violence.
He urged the authorities to ensure accountability through due process where violations of electoral laws or other relevant provisions were established.
Odigie specifically cited Section 97 of the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits direct or indirect threats of force or violence during political campaigns aimed at compelling electoral support or opposition.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remind political parties and candidates of their obligations under the Electoral Act and the Code of Conduct for Political Parties.
Political parties, he added, should discipline officials and supporters whose actions threaten peaceful democratic competition.
“Political speech must not become the equivalent of shouting fire in a crowded hall,” he said.
Freedom of Expression Comes With Responsibility
Odigie acknowledged the constitutional protection of freedom of expression under Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, but stressed that political speech must be exercised responsibly.
He warned against rhetoric capable of intimidating citizens or encouraging violence, particularly in an environment already affected by security challenges.
According to him, Nigeria is approaching the 2027 elections amid terrorism, communal conflicts and other security threats that could undermine peaceful democratic participation.
He warned that violent extremist and armed groups could exploit political tensions and divisions to deepen insecurity.
“For Nigeria, peace is not simply an electoral aspiration; it is a vital national, economic and social asset,” the organisation said.
INEC Urged to Address Electoral Gaps
Beyond political rhetoric, ITUC-Africa urged INEC to urgently address challenges surrounding voter registration, the integrity of the voters’ register and voter education.
Odigie warned that weaknesses in the electoral administration could exclude eligible citizens from meaningful participation and undermine their constitutional right to vote.
He said preventive action was necessary because electoral violence could destroy livelihoods, weaken democratic institutions and expose workers and communities to further danger.
Tinubu, Party Leaders Asked to Lead by Example
ITUC-Africa also called on President Bola Tinubu to publicly discourage and reprimand irresponsible political posturing that invokes violence, including within his political constituency.
Odigie similarly urged political party leaders to reject threats and intimidation and instead promote competition based on policies, ideas and development plans.
The organisation said it would continue monitoring emerging warning signs through its peace and security early warning mechanism and advocate preventive measures ahead of the 2027 elections.
With Nigeria’s next general elections approaching, ITUC-Africa said political leaders, security agencies, electoral authorities and political parties must work collectively to ensure that political competition does not degenerate into violence.
The organisation maintained that credible and inclusive elections depend not only on the conduct of the ballot but also on creating an environment where citizens can participate without fear, intimidation or threats.
