In the run‑up to Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, a series of violent incidents have raised alarms about the country’s security situation. Recent attacks in Binnari community, Karim‑Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, and Gero community, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, have claimed the lives of more than 60 and 10 civilians respectively, while bandit‑led violence in Benue State has also resulted in casualties.
These incidents are part of a broader pattern of violence that includes terrorism, armed robbery, and separatist activity. The attacks in Taraba, Jos and Benue have been attributed to groups claiming a religious motive, but security analysts suggest they may be aimed at undermining President Bola Tinubu’s administration and his re‑election prospects.
Amid growing concerns, President Tinubu has instructed the chiefs of the armed forces and police to eradicate terrorism and recover all victims held by bandits and other armed groups. However, reports indicate that police resources are being diverted to protect All Progressive Congress (APC) billboards in urban areas, while stricter measures are reportedly applied to opposition party displays.
A recent Afrobarometer survey found that insecurity is the top issue for Nigerians, with many describing the country as unsafe and abductions as a “very serious” problem. The survey cites the 2021 Abuja‑Kaduna train kidnapping that claimed 61 lives and notes that more than 2,600 civilians were killed by terrorists that year, with violence escalating further in 2022.
Political rhetoric has also intensified. Statements from APC figures—including Borno State Commissioner Sainna Buba, Senator Francis Fadahunsi of Osun East, Edo APC chairman Jarrett Tenebe, and the Kuje, FCT council chairman—have included threats of violence against opposition supporters, raising concerns that such language could trigger further unrest during the campaign period.
Security File urges citizens to report any suspicious activity that could affect the electoral process. Illegal firearm possession or drug dealing should be reported to the police at 07031179186 or to the NDLEA at 0800102.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
