The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has called for urgent action against rising political violence in the country, following reported attacks on political gatherings in Lagos, Edo, Cross River and Gombe states.
The council warned that the growing trend of violence posed a threat to peaceful political engagement and urged security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for disrupting political activities.
Its reaction comes after the disruption of a scheduled town hall meeting organised by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos on Thursday.
In a statement issued on November 12, the council’s spokesperson, Dele Alake, condemned the incident, alongside other reported attacks on political leaders and supporters, irrespective of their party affiliations.
The APC campaign council cautioned politicians, political parties and their supporters against resorting to intimidation, violence or other conduct capable of undermining public order as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
It insisted that political campaigns should provide an avenue for presenting ideas, debating policies and persuading voters rather than creating an atmosphere of hostility and confrontation.
The council also challenged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and preventive measures around political events to forestall further attacks.
It stressed that individuals found to have instigated or participated in political violence must be brought to justice and punished in accordance with the law.
The APC campaign council further appealed to political parties and candidates to concentrate on issues that address the challenges facing Nigerians, rather than engage in activities capable of escalating tensions.
The statement comes against the backdrop of growing political activities and concerns over the safety of politicians and supporters at public gatherings ahead of the 2027 elections.