2027: Kebbi warns against thuggery, urges peaceful campaigns

File photo: Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris.

The Kebbi State Government has warned political parties, supporters and other stakeholders against acts of political thuggery, violence and destruction of property ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The government also condemned the recent violence and destruction reported in parts of Jega local government area, describing the incident as unacceptable and calling for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.

The Special Adviser to Governor Nasir Idris on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris, stated this in a statement issued on Sunday.

He said the government was particularly concerned about the violent conduct displayed during the politically motivated incident, stressing that political differences should be resolved through dialogue and lawful democratic processes.

According to him, “The Kebbi State Government condemns the recent violence and destruction reported in parts of Jega and considers the incident unacceptable.”

He urged security agencies to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice, “irrespective of political affiliation or status.”

Idris acknowledged the security challenges confronting several states across the country but cautioned that insecurity must not be used as a justification for violence, destruction of property or attacks on individuals and political organisations.

“It is important to note that insecurity should not become a pretext for violence, destruction of property, or attacks on individuals and political organisations,” he said.

The governor’s aide called on political parties, their supporters, community leaders and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory statements capable of escalating tension.

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He said political differences should be addressed through “dialogue, lawful democratic processes and peaceful engagement rather than confrontation.”

The government commended security agencies, traditional institutions and community leaders for their efforts to restore calm and protect lives and property in Jega.

It also sympathised with residents who suffered losses during the incident, assuring them that their concerns would receive the attention of relevant authorities.

Idris warned that the administration’s socio-economic development programmes and projects would not be allowed to be undermined by politically motivated violence.

He stressed that “no individual, group of individuals or organisation can claim monopoly of violence under any guise.”

The government further urged citizens to reject violence and avoid rhetoric capable of threatening peace and democratic participation in the state.

It appealed to religious and community leaders to intensify prayers and promote peaceful coexistence among the state’s multi-ethnic and religious communities.

Idris reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Nasir Idris to the socio-economic development of Kebbi State, saying the administration would continue to implement its programmes and projects while collaborating with security agencies and communities to safeguard peace and sustainable development.