Tinubu authorises force against political thuggery

President Bola Tinubu said on November 13 that security agencies are authorised to confront political thuggery and other antidemocratic activities with full force ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. He condemned violence at political events and urged politicians and supporters across party lines to act responsibly.

In a statement issued by the State House, Tinubu said campaigns should focus on ideas and policies that promote public welfare and national development. He said political differences and competing ambitions should not make Nigerians enemies, and reiterated his commitment to a peaceful, free and fair election.

Tinubu also said all parties and candidates should be protected and allowed to campaign anywhere in the country without intimidation or threats to their safety. His statement renewed an earlier directive to security agencies to act firmly against those seeking to undermine public order. The statement did not set out specific enforcement measures or report whether the directive had led to arrests.

The remarks followed reports of violence linked to political activities. Police said one person was killed and five were injured during a political procession in...