Bola Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, condemned violence at political events across the country on Friday, November 13, 2026. He warned politicians and their supporters against thuggery as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu issued the directive in a statement he personally signed. He responded to reports of violence that accompanied recent political activities in several states.
The President stated that political campaigns should centre on issues and ideas that promote public welfare and national development. He stressed that violence has no place in the democratic process.
“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections,” Tinubu said.
He added that belonging to different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make Nigerians enemies. “As Nigerians, we are members of the same household living in different rooms. Therefore, our politics must elevate human conditions and focus on national progress and development,” he said.
Tinubu reiterated his directive to security agencies. He ordered them to remain strict and firm against anyone who seeks to undermine public order.
Furthermore, he authorised the agencies to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force. He affirmed that his administration remains committed to an orderly and peaceful election.
Political parties and candidates must campaign freely anywhere in the country without intimidation or fear for their safety, he added. “We shall not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters,” Tinubu warned.
The statement followed a series of reported attacks. Suspected political thugs attacked the convoy of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Isa Pantami in Gombe State.
In addition, African Democratic Congress governorship candidate Manir Dan’iya accused security personnel of attacking his convoy near Sokoto Airport. Meanwhile, the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi was attacked in Calabar, Cross River State, on November 4.
On November 12, suspected thugs invaded an NDC town hall meeting venue in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State. They disrupted the gathering and attacked supporters.
Tinubu urged political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.
