2027: Tinubu Warns Politicians Against Thuggery, Calls for Peaceful Campaigns

President Bola Tinubu has called on political parties, politicians and their supporters to focus on issue-based campaigns rather than violence as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

The President made the appeal in a statement on November 13, 2026, condemning reports of violence accompanying political activities in different parts of the country and urging political actors to embrace peaceful conduct.

Tinubu stressed that violence should have no place in political campaigns, insisting that electoral contests should revolve around ideas and policies capable of improving the welfare of Nigerians and advancing national development.

“I have followed recent reports of violence accompanying political events in different parts of the country. Every form of violence stands condemned.

Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections.

“Our campaigns should be about issues, a contestation of ideas that promote the welfare of our people and the progress of our country. As the leader of this country, I commit myself to a peaceful, free, and fair election, and I urge political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly,” he said.

The President maintained that belonging to different political parties or pursuing different political ambitions should not make Nigerians enemies.

He described Nigerians as members of the same household living in different rooms, stressing that politics should be centred on improving human conditions, national progress and development.

Tinubu also reiterated his earlier directive to security agencies to remain firm against individuals seeking to undermine public order.

“I want to reiterate my previous directive to the security agencies: be strict and firm against anyone who seeks to test our resolve and will to preserve public order,” he stated.

He further assured Nigerians that his administration remained committed to ensuring an orderly and peaceful electoral process, where all political parties and candidates could campaign freely across the country without intimidation or fear for their safety.

The President warned that his administration would not tolerate irresponsible behaviour by politicians and their supporters.

He consequently authorised security agencies to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief
Federal Republic of Nigeria
November 13, 2026