The African Regional Organization of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has warned Nigerian political leaders against threats, intimidation and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The regional body issued the warning in a statement, signed by its General Secretary, Mr Joel Odigie, through its Peace and Security Early Warning Mechanism, issued on Tuesday in Abuja.
Odigie expressed concern over the growing use of inflammatory political rhetoric as the country approaches the elections, warning that such statements could heighten tensions and trigger electoral violence.
He cited recent remarks attributed to the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Jarrett Tenebe, that reportedly called for “AK-47 fire” against individuals perceived as working against the party’s electoral interests.
“Threats, incitement and intimidation from any political actor must attract the same scrutiny, irrespective of political affiliation, party or individual involved in the alleged conduct.
“Nigeria’s elections must be a contest of ideas, policies and visions, not threats, weapons and fear,” he said.
Odigie urged political leaders to promote peaceful, credible and inclusive democratic competition, while calling on relevant authorities to respond promptly and impartially to credible allegations of electoral threats.
He specifically urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to investigate credible allegations of threats of electoral violence and ensure accountability where violations of electoral laws are established.
According to him, Section 97 of the Electoral Act 2026 prohibits direct or indirect threats of force or violence during political campaigns intended to compel electoral support or opposition.
He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remind political parties and candidates of their obligations under the Electoral Act and the Code of Conduct for Political Parties.
Odigie called on political parties to discipline officials and supporters whose conduct threatened peaceful democratic competition, stressing that elections must remain free from weapons and intimidation.
“Political speech must not become the equivalent of shouting fire in a crowded hall,” he said, warning against rhetoric that could intimidate citizens or incite violence.
While acknowledging the constitutional protection of freedom of expression under Section 39 of the Constitution, Odigie stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly.
He further urged INEC to urgently address challenges relating to voter registration, the integrity of the voters’ register and voter education ahead of the 2027 elections.
Odigie warned that administrative weaknesses in the electoral process could exclude eligible citizens from meaningful participation and undermine their constitutional right to vote.
He noted that Nigeria was entering the electoral period amid terrorism, communal conflicts and other security challenges that could undermine peaceful democratic participation.
According to him, violent extremist and armed groups could exploit heightened political tensions and divisions, making it imperative for political leaders to avoid rhetoric or actions capable of creating further opportunities for violence.
“For Nigeria, peace is not simply an electoral aspiration; it is a vital national, economic and social asset,” ITUC-Africa said.
Odigie said electoral violence could destroy livelihoods, weaken institutions and expose workers and communities to danger, stressing the need for preventive action before tensions escalated.
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ITUC-Africa also called on President Bola Tinubu to publicly discourage and reprimand irresponsible political posturing that invokes violence, including within his political constituency.
The organization urged leaders of all political parties to reject threats, intimidation, and inflammatory rhetoric, and instead promote peaceful competition based on policies, ideas, and development visions.
Odigie said ITUC-Africa would continue to monitor emerging warning signs and advocate preventive measures to support peaceful, credible and inclusive elections in Nigeria.
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