By Joyce Ekeh
The Senate has condemned political violence, intimidation and attacks on political activities across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling on security agencies to arrest and prosecute those responsible.
The Upper Chamber expressed concern over incidents of assault, destruction of property and disruption of political rallies, meetings, processions and other lawful political activities, irrespective of the political parties or individuals affected.
It warned that political violence posed a threat to democratic participation and peaceful electoral engagement, urging security agencies to act swiftly against perpetrators to prevent further incidents.
In a report, the Senate also called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to reject inflammatory statements, discourage violence and cooperate with security agencies to maintain peace and public order throughout the electioneering period.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), said the National Assembly supported President Bola Tinubu’s position on peace and national harmony.
Adaramodu stressed that political disagreements should not degenerate into violence, assault or the destruction of property, insisting that all political actors must respect the rights of others to participate in lawful democratic activities.
He said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is preaching peace and national harmony; the National Assembly is in support of Mr President on this.
“We thus condemn in totality any act of political violence and urge the security agents to apprehend whoever is culpable in such heinous act.”
The Senate maintained that those found responsible for political violence should be held accountable, stressing that prompt law enforcement action would serve as a deterrent to others.
It further urged political leaders and their supporters to demonstrate restraint, respect opposing views and allow democratic activities to proceed without intimidation or disruption as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
The position underscores the Senate’s call for peaceful political engagement and the protection of democratic rights ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
