Rising Election Violence: 70 Attacks and 27 Deaths Reported Ahead of 2027 Polls

A new report from the African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD) has brought national attention to the escalating trend of political violence in Nigeria. According to the organization, 70 distinct physical attacks linked to the electoral process were documented across 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory between January 1 and October 27, 2026. These incidents have resulted in 27 fatalities.

The Scope of Political Violence

The data released by CentreSGD paints a concerning picture of the security landscape leading up to the 2027 general elections. Theresa Chigozirim Odinkalu-Okoro, the executive director of the centre, stated that the frequency of these attacks—which target candidates, campaign convoys, party offices, and supporters—poses a significant threat to the credibility of the democratic process. The report highlights several specific incidents, including:

• Attacks on Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters in Enugu.
• Assaults on All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign convoys in Malumfashi and Yankara, Katsina State.
• The reported assault on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and his entourage in Ado-Ekiti.
• Alleged attacks involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto and the campaign convoy of presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar in Kebbi State.

CentreSGD noted that while these incidents have been reported, some of the allegations remain disputed by the political parties and authorities involved. The organization clarified that it is not assigning culpability but is instead advocating for thorough, impartial investigations.

Public Fear and Voter Participation

The impact of this violence extends beyond the immediate victims, significantly affecting public sentiment. Drawing on data from the CLEEN Foundation’s Election Security Threat Assessment and Yiaga Africa’s National Voting Intentions Survey conducted in September 2026, the centre reported that 61 per cent of Nigerians fear that violence could prevent them from exercising their right to vote. This apprehension is particularly acute in the North-East, where 78 per cent of respondents expressed concern regarding their safety at the polls.

Calls for Security Reform

In response to these findings, CentreSGD has issued a strong appeal to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies. The centre is calling for:

• Prompt and transparent investigations into all election-related violence.
• The prosecution of both perpetrators and their sponsors, regardless of political affiliation.
• A commitment to ensuring that security operations are conducted without political bias.

The organisation emphasised that the electoral process must remain a contest of ideas and popular mandate rather than a display of physical coercion. As the 2027 elections approach, the centre warned that the current environment of fear is incompatible with a thriving democracy.

Conclusion

The report from CentreSGD serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral landscape. While the specific details of every alleged attack remain subject to verification and investigation, the broader trend of rising violence and the resulting public anxiety are clear. Ensuring a secure environment will be essential for maintaining voter confidence and upholding the integrity of the upcoming general elections.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Daily Post Nigeria

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