President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned violence in all its forms and warned politicians and their supporters that his administration will not tolerate thuggery ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a personally signed statement issued on Friday, November 13, and shared on X by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make political actors enemies.
The statement was titled: “Let’s Shun Violence: Our Campaigns Must Be About Issues That Promote The Welfare Of Our People.”
What Tinubu Said
“I have followed recent reports of violence accompanying political events in different parts of the country,” Tinubu said.
“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections.”
“Our campaigns should be about issues — a contestation of ideas that promotes the welfare of our people and the progress of our country.”
“As the leader of this country, I commit myself to a peaceful, free, and fair election, and I urge political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.”
“I have said that being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make us enemies.”
Order To Security Agencies
Tinubu reiterated his previous directive to security agencies to go after those behind violent acts, irrespective of their political leanings.
“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.
“We shall not tolerate any 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 added that his administration is committed to an orderly and peaceful election, and that all political parties and candidates should be protected and free to campaign anywhere in the country without molestation or fear for their safety.
Why Now
The warning comes amid a growing wave of political violence across the country.
On Thursday, November 12, suspected political thugs disrupted a town hall meeting organised by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in support of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Oregun, Lagos State.
The incident drew condemnation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with APC campaign spokesperson Dele Alake expressing dismay and asking security agencies to be on alert.
It also comes after reports of violence greeting the President’s visit to the Shehu Shagari Mosque in Abuja on Friday, where he went to observe Juma’at prayer.
The statement is the latest in a series of warnings from the Presidency as campaigns intensify ahead of the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027.
The Peace Accord signed by candidates has already been flagged for over 100 breaches, raising fears about the credibility and safety of the polls.
