Nigeria: Don't Turn Election to War, Nasarawa Govt Cautions Political Leaders

What the report says

Nasarawa State authorities have urged political leaders, supporters and young people not to let the run-up to Nigeria’s 2027 general elections turn into violence. The warning came from the state commissioner for information, culture and tourism, Dr. Nawani Ezekiel Aboki, in Lafia, following unrest that disrupted an All Progressives Congress presidential campaign rally at Lafia Square in early November 2026, according to the Leadership report carried by AllAfrica.

Aboki said the government regretted the incident and viewed it as inconsistent with the state’s tradition of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. He said Governor Abdullahi Sule had directed security agencies to investigate the disturbance and hold anyone found responsible accountable under the law. He also said officials were working with security services to protect lives and property and prevent any further breakdown of order.

The commissioner appealed to residents to collect their permanent voter cards and take part in politics peacefully. He said campaign debate should focus on policies, development priorities and records in office rather than hostility, intimidation or destruction of property. He also called on parties and candidates to present their plans to voters, while asking the media to verify information and avoid sensational or inflammatory material.

The statement reflects broader concerns in Nigeria about election-related tensions and the need to keep campaign activity within legal and democratic bounds. Nasarawa’s government said the administration’s priority remains peace, security and orderly political participation.