As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise has called on political leaders, parties, and state institutions to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law. This appeal was made in a statement signed by Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer, on November 15, 2026. The CPPE expressed concerns about the growing incidence of politically induced violence, intimidation, and inflammatory rhetoric, which could have serious implications for economic stability and investor confidence.
The CPPE noted that political competition is a legitimate feature of democracy, but when it degenerates into violence, institutional manipulation, and disregard for due process, the consequences extend beyond politics to investment decisions, business operations, employment, and economic growth. The centre emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford an electoral process that compounds existing economic vulnerabilities or undermines the gains of ongoing economic reforms. Political violence, according to the CPPE, is a direct threat to investment and economic stability.
The CPPE highlighted several ways in which political violence can impact the economy, including investment uncertainty, business disruptions, capital flight, and higher operating costs. The centre noted that heightened political risk discourages new investments, delays expansion plans, and increases investor risk premiums. Additionally, political clashes, insecurity, and violent protests can threaten commercial activities, supply chains, logistics, and market access.
The CPPE also emphasized the negative impact of political violence on Nigeria's investment reputation. The centre noted that persistent political violence weakens Nigeria's attractiveness as a destination for domestic and foreign investment, particularly for small businesses, informal enterprises, and investors with significant fixed assets that cannot be readily relocated. The economic costs of political violence, according to the CPPE, are particularly severe for these groups.
To prevent further escalation of political violence, the CPPE called on security agencies to act proactively, impartially, and decisively to prevent violence and ensure accountability for perpetrators and sponsors. The centre also tasked INEC to operate independently, transparently, and professionally, free from political interference or intimidation by political actors. Furthermore, the CPPE urged security agencies to provide impartial protection for all political actors, electoral officials, citizens, and economic assets.
The CPPE emphasized the importance of institutional neutrality in ensuring a peaceful political transition and a stable investment climate. The centre noted that regulatory and law enforcement institutions must not be weaponized for political intimidation, selective sanctions, or partisan advantage. Additionally, the civil service and public administration must sustain professionalism, continuity of essential services, and neutrality in the management of public resources.
The CPPE called for zero tolerance for political violence and urged political parties and their leaders to publicly reject violence, restrain their supporters, and cooperate with lawful investigations and prosecution of offenders. The centre also stressed the need for responsible political communication, adding that political leaders must avoid inflammatory rhetoric, threats, and actions capable of provoking social unrest or undermining public confidence.
Key points
- The CPPE emphasizes the importance of institutional neutrality in ensuring a peaceful political transition and a stable investment climate.
- The centre highlights the negative impact of political violence on Nigeria's investment reputation and economic stability.
- The CPPE calls for zero tolerance for political violence and urges political parties and their leaders to publicly reject violence.
