The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed concerns over emerging signs of political intimidation and violence ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. In a statement, RULAAC's Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, highlighted the need for President Bola Tinubu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other security agencies to intervene. Recent incidents and allegations across several states have raised warning signs that should not be ignored.
RULAAC identified several unsavoury developments, including inflammatory political rhetoric, disruption of opposition political meetings, obstruction of political actors' movement, and allegations of discriminatory interference with campaign materials. Threats of physical violence against political opponents have also been reported. These developments have raised concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.
According to RULAAC, a credible election cannot be secured merely by deploying armed personnel to polling units after months of threats, intimidation, and political violence have restricted political participation. The group recalled provisions of the Electoral Act, which prohibits the organisation or equipping of groups for the use of force or coercion for political purposes and prohibits threats of force or violence intended to compel citizens to support or refrain from supporting political parties or candidates.
RULAAC urged President Tinubu to give an unequivocal directive for institutional neutrality, stressing that he bears responsibilities not only as a candidate and leader of the ruling party but also as President of the Federal Republic. The group asked the President to publicly reaffirm that no governor, minister, local government chairman, party official, candidate, or political supporter will receive protection from investigation or prosecution where credible evidence of electoral violence, threats, or intimidation exists.
The group also asked the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to investigate credible threats before they become violence, adding that political neutrality must become the operational standard for election policing. RULAAC emphasized the need for INEC to strengthen its monitoring and early-warning role, saying that political parties must be held to their commitments under the National Peace Accord.
RULAAC's call for intervention comes as the 2027 general elections approach, with concerns about the potential for violence and intimidation to undermine the credibility of the electoral process. The group's statement highlights the need for stakeholders to work together to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
Key to ensuring a credible election is the commitment of stakeholders to upholding the Electoral Act and promoting a culture of accountability and transparency. RULAAC's recommendations to President Tinubu, INEC, and security agencies aim to promote a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Key points
- RULAAC urges President Tinubu to give a directive for institutional neutrality ahead of the 2027 elections.
- The group calls on INEC to strengthen its monitoring and early-warning role to prevent electoral violence.
- RULAAC emphasizes the need for security agencies to investigate credible threats before they become violence.
