Nigeria: 19 States Record 70 Political Violence, 27 Deaths in 10 Months - Report

What the report says

The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development (CentreSGD) says political violence is escalating across Nigeria and could weaken the credibility of the 2027 general elections. In a statement reported by Leadership and distributed by AllAfrica, the Abuja-based group said it tracked 70 physical election-related attacks in 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory between 1 January and 27 October 2026, with 27 deaths linked to 20 of those incidents.

CentreSGD said the pattern of violence has increasingly targeted candidates, supporters, campaign convoys, party offices and campaign events. It cited incidents in states including Enugu, Katsina, Ekiti, Sokoto and Kebbi, while also noting that some allegations were disputed by those accused and by authorities. The group stressed that it was not assigning blame, but was calling for independent investigations and prosecutions where evidence supports them. It also pointed to police arrests announced in connection with some of the incidents and said those cases should lead to transparent legal action.

The organisation linked the security concerns to voter confidence, referencing survey findings it said showed many Nigerians fear violence could keep them from voting, with concern especially high in the North-East. It warned that fear and intimidation could reduce participation among young people, women and persons with disabilities. For context, Nigeria’s next presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for 16 January 2027, followed by governorship and state assembly polls on 6 February 2027.

CentreSGD urged the police, electoral authorities and political parties to strengthen security, condemn violent rhetoric and ensure equal access to campaign facilities and public spaces.