Tinubu to Security Agencies: Confront Anti-Democratic Activities With Full Force

President Bola Tinubu has authorised security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-democratic activities with full force as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

The President gave the directive on Friday in a State House press release, against the backdrop of recent reports of violence accompanying political gatherings in different parts of the country.

Tinubu condemned all forms of political violence, warning politicians and their supporters against turning election campaigns into platforms for intimidation and attacks.

According to the President political campaigns should focus on issues, ideas and policies capable of improving the welfare of Nigerians and advancing national development.

He said: “Our campaigns should be about issues, a contestation of ideas that promote the welfare of our people and the progress of our country.”

The President reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections in 2027, urging political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.

He maintained that political differences should not create hostility among Nigerians, stressing that membership of different political parties does not make citizens enemies.

Tinubu described Nigerians as members of the same household living in different rooms, insisting that political activities must promote human welfare, national progress and development.

Reiterating his earlier directive to security agencies, the President urged them to remain firm against individuals seeking to undermine public order.

He declared that all political parties and candidates must be allowed to campaign freely anywhere in the country without intimidation, molestation or threats to their safety.

The President warned that his administration would not tolerate 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 stated.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to an orderly and peaceful electoral process, warning that political violence would not be tolerated as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.