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•Warns politicians against violence
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has authorised security agencies to confront political thuggery and other anti-democratic activities with full force, warning politicians and their supporters against acts capable of disrupting public order ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The president, who condemned recent reports of violence at political events in different parts of the country, said his administration would not tolerate irresponsible conduct by political actors as campaigns gather momentum towards the next general elections.
In a statement issued by the State House on Friday, Tinubu directed security agencies to remain strict and firm against anyone seeking to test the government’s resolve to preserve public order.
“Security agencies are therefore authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force,” he said.
The president also warned that political differences and competing ambitions should not turn political parties and their supporters into enemies, insisting that the 2027 campaigns must be driven by issues and competing ideas capable of improving the welfare of Nigerians.
“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move towards the 2027 general elections,” he said.
Tinubu stressed that political campaigns should provide a platform for contesting ideas that promote the welfare of citizens and the country’s development rather than creating divisions and threatening lives.
He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, urging political leaders and supporters across party lines to conduct themselves responsibly.
The president further insisted that all political parties and candidates must be allowed to campaign freely in every part of the country without intimidation, molestation or fear for their safety.
“Our administration is committed to an orderly and peaceful election, and all political parties and candidates should be protected and free to campaign anywhere in the country without molestation or fear for their safety,” he said.
Describing Nigerians as members of the same household despite their political differences, Tinubu said belonging to different political parties or pursuing different ambitions should not make them adversaries.
