Tinubu Orders Crackdown on Thuggery, Violence Ahead of 2027 Elections

President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned violence at political events across Nigeria, warning politicians and their supporters against acts of thuggery ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a statement signed on Friday, November 13, 2026, Tinubu emphasized that political campaigns should focus on issues and ideas that promote public welfare and national development, rather than violence. He stressed that every form of violence stands condemned and should not have a place in Nigeria's political campaigns.

Tinubu reiterated his commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free, and fair election, urging political leaders and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly. He noted that belonging to different political parties or pursuing different political ambitions should not make Nigerians enemies. Instead, Tinubu emphasized that Nigerians are members of the same household living in different rooms, and their politics must elevate human conditions and focus on national progress and development.

The President renewed his directive to security agencies to take firm action against anyone seeking to undermine public order. He stated that his administration is committed to an orderly and peaceful election, allowing political parties and candidates to campaign anywhere in the country without intimidation or fear for their safety. Tinubu warned that his administration will not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters.

Recent attacks on political candidates, their supporters, and party gatherings have prompted Tinubu's warning. In Gombe State, suspected political thugs attacked the convoy of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami. Similarly, in Sokoto State, the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate, Manir Dan'iya, accused security personnel of attacking his convoy. In Calabar, Cross River State, the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was attacked on November 4.

Tinubu's warning also comes after suspected thugs invaded an NDC town hall meeting venue in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State, on November 12, disrupting the gathering and attacking supporters. The police have since arrested a suspect in connection with the incident. The President authorized security agencies to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has also taken a stance on the issue, barring its officials from using the union's name or platform to endorse political candidates or parties. This move aims to prevent the union's involvement in politics and maintain its neutrality. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has completed the 21-day monitoring of all 62 contacts linked to an Ebola outbreak, with all contacts testing negative.

The Federal Government has also warned Nigerians, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, to exercise caution when traveling through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following the deaths of 16 Nigerians. The government has emphasized the need for travelers to be aware of potential health risks and take necessary precautions. Key to ensuring a peaceful election is the government's commitment to securing the country and protecting its citizens.

Key points

• President Tinubu condemns violence at political events and warns politicians and supporters against thuggery ahead of the 2027 general elections.
• The President renews his directive to security agencies to take firm action against anyone seeking to undermine public order.
• Recent attacks on political candidates and their supporters have prompted Tinubu's warning, including incidents in Gombe, Sokoto, and Lagos states.