Amnesty raises alarm over threats, inciting comments ahead of 2027 elections

Amnesty International has said it is closely monitoring and documenting reckless, inciting and divisive remarks by politicians and their associates during ongoing campaigns ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.

The human rights organisation warned that politicians who use campaigns to undermine freedom, peace and democratic participation could be held accountable under international law.

Amnesty’s warning follows a series of controversial political remarks, including recent threats attributed to the Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Paul Ituma.

In a video seen by Amnesty, Ituma warned political opponents and those accused of working against his party’s interests, saying, “Anyone who tries to do so will be declared persona non grata.”

He also said, “Anyone who wants to put sand in my garri (not vote for APC) should not come close to Ohaukwu.”

Amnesty condemned the remarks, saying, “Such threatening and inciting rhetorics are dangerous and show clear desperation to undermine freedom of association and the democratic value of personal liberty.”

Another controversy was reported in Yobe State earlier in the week, where the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Gadaka, was criticised over remarks directed at women and their voting choices.

Gadaka was quoted as telling women whose husbands would not allow them to vote for the APC to leave their marriages.

He reportedly said, “If your husband does not allow you to vote for APC, divorce him. I will give you money for your dowry.”

The remark sparked criticism, prompting Gadaka to apologise and retract the statement.

Last month, the organisation also raised concerns over remarks attributed to Kuje Area Council Chairman in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo.

In a video, Shekwolo was heard saying, “It’s either you are doing APC or you leave the area council. I am not arguing about it at all.”

Although, he said he was quoted out of context.

Amnesty International said such incidents demonstrate the need for authorities to act early against political intimidation and incitement before the situation escalates into violence.

The organisation called on the Nigeria Police Force to promptly investigate the Ebonyi chairman’s remarks and take appropriate action if a criminal offence is established.

It also urged the Ebonyi State Government and other authorities to protect political parties, candidates, supporters and voters from intimidation and violence.

Amnesty said, “Everyone must be free to support, campaign for and vote for the candidate or party of their choice. Authorities must act now to protect this right.”