As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, a wave of threatening and intimidating statements from senior members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised serious concerns about voter safety and electoral integrity. These remarks, made in various states across the country, have been widely condemned as violations of democratic principles and human rights. The comments range from threats of violence to coercive messages aimed at forcing citizens to vote for APC candidates, sparking public alarm and calls for accountability.
One of the most controversial incidents involved Osun East Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who was accused of threatening to kill members of the Accord Party in Ilesa ahead of the Osun State governorship election. Although he later withdrew the statement, the damage had already been done, with many viewing it as a dangerous escalation of political rhetoric. Similarly, an aide to the chairman of Kuje Area Council reportedly warned residents that “If you do not vote for Tinubu and APC candidates, Kuje is not a place for you to live,” further fueling fears of coercion.
The situation worsened when Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, was caught on video suggesting force could be used against those refusing to support the APC in 2027. He was also accused of threatening to cut off the hand of anyone who defied the party’s candidates. In Yobe State, APC Chairman Muhammad Gadaka sparked outrage by telling women whose husbands opposed voting for the APC to leave their marriages, adding that he would marry them. After widespread backlash, Gadaka apologized, claiming his comments were meant as jokes.
At a massive APC rally in Kano, journalist Tijjani Muhammad reported seeing armed thugs moving freely around the Sani Abacha Stadium, accompanied by security personnel. Videos circulating online showed these individuals attempting to snatch phones from passengers in Keke Napep vehicles, raising fears of harassment and intimidation. Legal experts and civil society leaders have since emphasized that such actions violate the Electoral Act and the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee citizens the right to free and fair elections without fear or coercion.
Ibrahim Kiyawa, a lawyer and social commentator, stressed that while Nigerians have the right to associate and choose their political representatives, they cannot engage in acts that threaten public peace or national security. He urged politicians to take responsibility for controlling their supporters and preventing intimidation during the election period. Mamman Buhari, an activist and journalist in Kano, warned that such threats could lead to voter apathy and violent confrontations at polling units, especially in Northern Nigeria.
Despite assurances from INEC, the Nigeria Police, and the Bola Tinubu administration about credible elections, many Nigerians remain skeptical. As political campaigns intensify, the real test will be whether leaders can promote democracy through persuasion rather than fear. The coming years may determine if Nigeria’s electoral process becomes more inclusive or further eroded by intimidation and threats.
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