Reps probe political violence ahead of 2027

File: House of Representatives

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate reported cases of political violence, attacks on political gatherings and disruption of political activities across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Fred Agbedi, and 16 other lawmakers on Thursday, amid growing concerns over attacks on political meetings, rallies and processions in different parts of the country.

Leading the debate on behalf of the sponsors, Agbedi condemned acts of violence, intimidation, assault and destruction of property associated with political rallies, meetings, processions and other lawful political activities, irrespective of the political parties or individuals affected.

He warned that “the rising incidents, if left unchecked, may threaten the peaceful conduct of the 2027 general elections and undermine citizens’ confidence in the democratic process.”

Agbedi reminded lawmakers that Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, “guarantees every citizen the right to assemble freely and associate with others, including the right to form or belong to political parties.”

He also cited the constitutional provision which makes the security and welfare of the people the primary purpose of government, arguing that “citizens must be able to participate in political activities without fear of attacks or intimidation.”

The Minority Leader urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to shun inflammatory statements, discourage violence and cooperate with security agencies to maintain public order.

He called on the House to invoke its investigative powers under Section 88(1) of the Constitution to examine the circumstances surrounding the reported incidents and scrutinise the performance of public authorities responsible for enforcing relevant laws.

To underscore the gravity of the situation, Agbedi cited several incidents of political violence recorded in different parts of the country.

He recalled the disruption of political meetings in Enugu State on September 12, 2026, during which the police reportedly confirmed that two attendees were injured, while one person was allegedly killed.

He also cited an attack on All Progressives Congress supporters travelling to a rally in Katsina State on October 28, 2026, which reportedly led to the arrest of 14 suspects.

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In Nasarawa State, the lawmaker recalled the attack on an APC rally in Lafia on November 4, 2026, where several people were reportedly injured.

He further drew attention to a violent incident during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, on November 7, 2026, in which the police reportedly confirmed that one person was killed and five others injured.

According to him, the incidents “point to the need for urgent intervention to prevent political disagreements from degenerating into violence.

He expressed concern that persistent attacks, intimidation and destruction of property could result in further loss of lives, discourage citizens from participating in legitimate political activities and weaken public confidence in the electoral process.

Agbedi, however, cautioned against drawing conclusions about those responsible without proper investigations, insisting that allegations surrounding the incidents must be subjected to impartial, thorough and evidence-based scrutiny.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House constituted an ad hoc committee, chaired by the Leader of the House, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, to investigate the immediate and remote causes of politically motivated violence across the country.

The committee was given three weeks to investigate the incidents and submit its findings to the House.

Its membership includes the House Leader and Minority Leader, chairmen and deputy chairmen of the House Committees on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence, as well as two additional members drawn from the committees.

The investigation comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify consultations and preparations for the 2027 general elections.

With political activities expected to increase in the coming months, concerns over the safety of political gatherings and the protection of citizens’ rights to freedom of association and assembly have become increasingly important.

The outcome of the House investigation is expected to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks and identify measures to hold perpetrators accountable and prevent a recurrence.