As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, controversial statements attributed to some senior members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress have raised concerns about voter intimidation and electoral violence.
The remarks, some of which were later withdrawn or described as jokes, have been criticised as threats capable of undermining Nigerians’ constitutional right to freely choose their preferred candidates.
One of the controversies involved Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East. Ahead of the Osun State governorship election, Fadahunsi was accused of directing his supporters to “kill” members of the Accord Party.
Following public condemnation, the senator clarified that he was referring to defeating the opposition through votes rather than physical violence. The Sun reported that the statement came amid concerns about election-related violence in the state.
A similar controversy emerged in the Federal Capital Territory after an aide to the chairman of Kuje Area Council reportedly warned residents that Kuje was not a place for anyone unwilling to vote for President Bola Tinubu and APC candidates.
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More recently, Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, faced criticism over comments attributed to him in a widely circulated video.
Buba was reported to have threatened punitive action against residents who refused to support the APC in 2027. He allegedly spoke about cutting off the fingers of opponents and denying government benefits to those who failed to support the ruling party. The ICIR reported that the remarks were made during the inauguration of a political support campaign.
Another controversial statement came from Yobe State APC Chairman Muhammad Gadaka, who reportedly urged women prevented by their husbands from voting for the party to leave their marriages, adding that he would pay their dowries and marry them.
Following widespread criticism, Gadaka apologised and withdrew the statement, saying it was intended as a joke and should not be interpreted as an encouragement for women to divorce their husbands. Daily Post reported his apology.
Journalist raises alarm over armed thugs at Kano rally
Concerns about political violence also emerged following a massive APC rally held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on Saturday.
Suspected political thugs carrying dangerous weapons were reportedly seen moving along major roads while security personnel monitored the procession.
Journalist Tijjani Muhammad, who attended the rally, said fear grew among reporters and other attendees after the suspected thugs began gathering around the stadium.
Videos circulated online also appeared to show armed individuals moving along the roads. In one of the clips, a man reportedly attempted to seize a mobile phone from a passenger inside a commercial tricycle.
Electoral Act prohibits intimidation—Lawyer
Reacting to the developments, Nigerian lawyer and social commentator Ibrahim Kiyawa said the Constitution and Electoral Act protect citizens from intimidation, threats and coercion during elections.
According to him, Nigerians have the right to associate freely, join political parties and vote for candidates of their choice without fear or pressure.
“The Nigerian Constitution has given every citizen the right to association, to elect whoever he wishes and to join any political party of his choice,” Kiyawa said.
He explained, however, that freedom of association does not cover involvement in organisations or activities that threaten public peace, national security or Nigeria’s constitutional order.
“It is now the election period and politicians are trying to sell their candidates to voters. But the Electoral Act has warned against intimidation or forcing individuals to vote for or against any candidate,” he added.
Kiyawa urged political leaders to control their supporters and avoid statements that could encourage harassment or violence. He also called on security agencies to protect voters and maintain law and order throughout the election period.
Threats may worsen voter apathy—Activist
Kano-based activist and journalist Mamman Buhari warned that threatening political rhetoric could discourage Nigerians from participating in the elections.
“We may have voter apathy with comments like these. Then the polling units will be filled with thugs and party members. They may still fight,” he said.
Buhari expressed concern that inflammatory statements could further heighten political tensions, particularly in northern Nigeria.
Although the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Nigeria Police Force and President Tinubu’s administration have repeatedly promised free, fair and credible elections, public anxiety over safety and electoral integrity remains.
With political mobilisation intensifying ahead of 2027, stakeholders have warned that threatening statements could deepen distrust in the electoral process and keep legitimate voters away from polling units.
