The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD) has warned that rising political violence in Nigeria could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections and discourage citizens from voting.
The centre disclosed that 70 election related attacks were recorded across 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory between January 1 and October 27, 2026, leaving 27 people dead in 20 of the incidents.
The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD), Executive Director, Theresa Chigozirim Odinkalu-Okoro, said the attacks on candidates, supporters and political gatherings posed a serious threat to the electoral process.
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Campaign Activities Become Targets
Citing the CLEEN Foundation’s Election Security Threat Assessment, CentreSGD identified campaign rallies, party offices and political meetings as increasingly dangerous spaces for political actors.
It highlighted reported attacks in Enugu, Katsina, Ekiti, Sokoto and Kebbi states, involving campaign convoys, party supporters and candidates. Some of the incidents, however, have been disputed by the parties and authorities concerned.
The centre stressed the need for thorough investigations, noting that arrests made in connection with the Katsina and Ekiti incidents should lead to transparent prosecutions where evidence supports them.
CentreSGD also cited a September 2026 Yiaga Africa survey, which found that 61 percent of Nigerians feared violence could prevent them from voting. The figure rose to 78 per cent in the North-East.
Although 84 percent of respondents said they were likely to vote in 2027, only 40 percent of young respondents were very likely to participate, compared with 64 per cent of those aged 61 and above.
The centre warned that insecurity could further discourage young people, women and persons with disabilities from participating in elections.
It called on security agencies to investigate attacks and prosecute those responsible, while urging political parties to discourage violent conduct among their supporters.
“Democracy cannot thrive in an environment governed by fear,” the centre said.
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