The growing risk of violence and other electoral irregularities ahead of the 2027 general elections has raised concerns about Nigeria’s preparedness for another nationwide electoral exercise.
The warning follows the identification of 109 electoral breaches by a panel led by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, which has called for urgent action to address weaknesses in the country’s electoral process.
The report showed that the breaches were recorded between August 19 and October 27, with Kaduna recording the highest number of incidents at nine. Edo, Enugu and the Federal Capital Territory followed with seven incidents each.
According to the report, political violence and thuggery accounted for 33 incidents, representing 30.3 per cent of the total, while misinformation and disinformation contributed 29 cases, representing 26.6 per cent.
Attacks on political activities and campaign materials accounted for 19 incidents, while intimidation and threats recorded 15 cases.
The committee also identified Enugu, Oyo, Edo and Cross River as states requiring urgent attention because of repeated armed disruptions of political gatherings and campaign activities.
It cited incidents including the obstruction of the convoy of former Anambra State governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, near Makurdi, Benue State, as well as attacks on political gatherings in Enugu, Cross River and Edo states.
The report further expressed concern over the spread of fabricated newspaper headlines, forged documents, recycled campaign videos and false political statements on social media.
It said 30 of the recorded incidents originated online, with some spreading across different locations without identifiable geographical origins.
The committee warned that the circulation of false political information could damage reputations, distort public debate and increase mistrust among political groups.
It identified restricted campaign access, armed political mobilisation, intimidation by public office-holders, information disorder and declining institutional credibility as major threats to the 2027 elections.
To address the situation, the committee urged political parties and candidates to condemn violence, disown armed groups and discipline members involved in activities capable of threatening peaceful elections.
It also called on security agencies to provide equal protection for all political parties and investigate reported attacks, while urging relevant institutions to ensure that electoral offences are properly prosecuted.
The National Peace Committee urged political actors to honour the commitments made under the National Peace Accord and ensure that Nigerians can participate in political activities without fear or intimidation.
