Nigeria: 19 States Record 70 Political Violence, 27 Deaths in 10 Months - Report

The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD) has issued an alarm about the surge in political violence across Nigeria, which could jeopardize the 2027 general elections. The centre revealed that 70 election-related attacks occurred in 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from January 1st to October 27th, 2026, leading to 27 deaths.

Executive Director Theresa Chigozirim Odinkalu-Okoro emphasized that the escalating violence and intimidation present a systemic threat to the electoral process as campaigns intensify. With less than 70 days remaining before the 16th January 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections, and governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections scheduled for February 6th, 2027, security agencies must act swiftly.

Recent incidents include attacks on campaign rallies, party offices, and supporters in states like Enugu, Katsina, Ekiti, Sokoto, and Kebbi. The CLEEN Foundation's Election Security Threat Assessment and Yiaga Africa's National Voting Intentions Survey both highlight the growing fear of violence among Nigerians, with 61% fearing it would prevent them from voting, and this figure rising to 78% in the North-East.

The centre urges the Nigeria Police Force, security agencies, INEC, and ICCES to conduct thorough, transparent investigations, prosecute offenders, and ensure secure environments for peaceful elections.