Tinubu Reads Riot Act to Security Agencies Ahead of Saturday’s Elections

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm warning to security agencies deployed for Saturday’s elections, cautioning them against any form of high-handedness, intimidation, or actions that could disenfranchise voters.

The warning was contained in a statement released on Friday by
the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) Bayo Onanuga.

President Tinubu, in the statement, directed security personnel to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism as voters head to the polls in the Federal Capital Territory and the states of Kano and Rivers.

He stressed that their primary role is to protect lives, property, and the sanctity of the ballot.

“President Tinubu cautioned against any form of high-handedness, intimidation, or actions that could disenfranchise voters or erode public trust, stressing that security personnel are present to protect lives, property, and the sanctity of the ballot,” the statement read.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to conduct elections in the six area councils of the FCT, as well as bye-elections in the Ahoada East II and Khana II State constituencies of Rivers State, and the Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.

The President urged all eligible voters to come out and vote without fear, emphasising that the democratic process thrives best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect. He also appealed to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to shun violence and inflammatory statements that could undermine the credibility of the process.

Tinubu further called on INEC to take all necessary measures to bolster voters’ confidence by ensuring timely accreditation, smooth voting processes, accurate collation, and prompt transmission of results, in line with the 2026 Electoral Act.

“Fellow Nigerians, I assure you that the Federal Government under my administration will continue to support institutions responsible for delivering free, fair, and credible elections,” the President said.

“To all residents of the FCT, Kano and Rivers, I commend your civic consciousness. I am confident that these elections will reflect the will of the people and further strengthen our democratic journey as a nation.”