INEC, police to crack down on politicians engaging in threats, intimidation, hate speech…

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force have vowed to crack down on politicians engaging in threats, intimidation and hate speech ahead of the 2027 general elections, following a wave of inflammatory remarks by political office holders across the country, according to a report by Punch.

Since INEC signalled the commencement of political campaigns last month, several serving senators, commissioners, council chairmen and governors have been caught on camera or quoted making statements condemned as capable of inciting violence and voter suppression, spanning states including Osun, the Federal Capital Territory, Borno, Kebbi and Ebonyi.

Among the most prominent cases, Senator Francis Fadahunsi of Osun East drew nationwide backlash after telling supporters to “kill” members of the Accord party, prompting Governor Ademola Adeleke to demand his arrest and describe the remarks as a national security threat. Police have since questioned the senator as part of an ongoing investigation.

In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru dismissed harassment allegations levelled against his party members while warning perceived opponents that “they will see real threat at the right time.” A Borno State commissioner also stirred outrage after threatening that residents who fail to support the ruling party in 2027 would face reprisals.

Civil society organisations and rights groups have condemned the pattern of rhetoric, warning that unchecked political intimidation could push Nigeria toward another cycle of election-related violence. In response, security agencies say they are stepping up monitoring and enforcement to deter further threats as campaigns intensify ahead of the polls.