70 election attacks kill 27 across 19 states as 2027 polls loom
CentreSGD reports 70 physical election-related attacks across 19 states and the FCT between January and October 2026, leaving 27 dead. The attacks targeted candidates, supporters, campaign convoys and party offices—including NDC supporters in Enugu, APC convoys in Katsina's Malumfashi and Yankara, and AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore in Ado-Ekiti. ADC convoys in Sokoto and Kebbi were also allegedly attacked, though some claims are disputed.
CLEEN Foundation and Yiaga Africa surveys from September show 61% of Nigerians fear violence could stop them from voting, rising to 78% in the North-East. CentreSGD warns this escalating violence threatens the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The centre urges police and security agencies to investigate all incidents promptly, transparently and without political bias, prosecuting perpetrators and sponsors. "Elections should be a contest of ideas, not a test of physical force," the statement reads.
With 19 months until the next general election, the pattern suggests violence may intensify during campaign season. Will security agencies act decisively now, or will fear shape voter turnout in 2027?