President Bola Tinubu has condemned the growing incidents of violence at political events across Nigeria, warning politicians and their supporters against actions capable of undermining peace and public order ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President said political campaigns should focus on issues, competing ideas and policies that would improve the welfare of Nigerians rather than violence, intimidation and political hostility.
Tinubu stated this while reacting to reports of violent incidents accompanying political activities in different parts of the country, stressing that violence had no place in Nigeria’s democratic process.
He called on political leaders and their supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly, insisting that differences in political affiliations and ambitions should not turn Nigerians into enemies.
According to him, the country’s political environment must promote national unity, development and improved living conditions rather than hostility among citizens.
“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.
The President also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, declaring that all political parties and candidates must be allowed to campaign freely across the country without harassment, intimidation or threats to their safety.
He urged security agencies to remain firm in maintaining public order and confronting individuals or groups seeking to disrupt political activities through violence.
Tinubu reiterated his earlier directive to security agencies to take decisive action against anyone attempting to undermine the government’s resolve to preserve peace and public safety.
He further warned that his administration would not tolerate irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters, particularly activities capable of threatening democratic participation.
The President authorised security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force, emphasising the need for strict enforcement of law and order.
READ ALSO: Heatwaves And Health: How Rising Temperatures Are Affecting Nigerians
His warning comes as political activities and preparations gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, raising concerns about the potential impact of political violence on the electoral process.
Tinubu maintained that the responsibility for peaceful elections rests on political parties, candidates, supporters and security institutions.
He said the administration remained committed to an orderly electoral process in which Nigerians could participate without fear, urging political actors to prioritise national interest over personal and partisan ambitions.