President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered security agencies to act with full force against political violence, condemning recent reports of violent incidents accompanying political activities across Nigeria.
In a Statehouse press statement personally signed by the President and issued on Friday, November 13, 2026, Tinubu stated that all forms of violence “are condemned,” stressing that violence should never have a place in the country’s political campaigns as Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections.
“Let us reject violence. Our campaigns should focus on issues that promote the well-being of our people,” Tinubu said in the statement, calling on political leaders and supporters across party lines to act responsibly.
The President’s statement comes against the backdrop of a series of violent incidents recorded across Nigeria in recent weeks. According to data released by the African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD), between January 1 and October 27, 2026, 70 physical attacks related to elections were recorded across 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory, resulting in 27 deaths.
· Gombe State: On November 11, the campaign convoy of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate Isa Ali Pantami was attacked by suspected thugs while entering Gombe city. Videos showed thugs blocking roads with burning tires and smashing vehicle windshields. Amnesty International described this as “one of the deadliest acts of political violence since the start of the 2027 election campaign”.
· Delta State: On November 7, a political procession in Asaba turned violent, resulting in 1 death and 5 injuries. The Delta State government accused organizers of ignoring police recommendations to change the event venue.
· Cross River State: On November 4, the convoy of National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi was attacked in Calabar, with vehicles damaged. Police arrested one suspect.
· Katsina State: In October, supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) traveling to a campaign event were attacked, a female party member was injured, and police subsequently arrested 14 people.
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to a peaceful, free and fair election, stating: “As the leader of this country, I commit myself to a peaceful, free and fair election.”
He emphasized that differences in political party affiliation or ambition do not make Nigerians enemies. “As Nigerians, we are members of the same family living in different rooms. Therefore, our politics must elevate the human condition and focus on national progress and development,” he said.
Reaffirming previous directives to security agencies, Tinubu demanded that they be “strict and firm against anyone attempting to test our resolve and will to maintain public order.”
He assured 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.”
“We will not tolerate any irresponsible behavior by politicians and their supporters,” the President warned, authorizing security agencies “to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force.”
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