The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has warned that Nigeria’s security agencies alone cannot guarantee peaceful elections in 2027 if politicians choose violence and misinformation.
Musa, who spoke through his Senior Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy, Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Akinjobi (retd.), at the eighth Blueprint Newspaper Lecture and Awards, said political actors must take responsibility for ensuring credible and peaceful elections.
He said elections should be treated as democratic competition rather than warfare, urging political parties to put the national interest above partisan interests.
“No security architecture, regardless of how sophisticated, can guarantee peaceful elections if political actors choose violence over dialogue. No electoral law can succeed where misinformation is allowed to replace truth. No democratic institution can flourish where citizens lose faith in the rule of law.
“The responsibility before us is therefore shared. Political parties must place national interest above partisan advantage, and candidates must recognise that political competition is not warfare.”
Musa also outlined a six-point framework for election security ahead of the 2027 polls. The framework includes intelligence integration, threat assessment, protection of digital infrastructure, cyber resilience, civil-military coordination and strategic communications.
He said the Armed Forces would work with the Office of the National Security Adviser, Police, DSS, DIA, INEC and other relevant agencies to ensure their constitutional responsibilities are carried out professionally and impartially.
“Let me emphasise once again that the Armed Forces have no partisan interest in the outcome of elections. Our institutional interest is that Nigeria remains peaceful, united and secure, and that every lawful responsibility assigned to us is carried out with honour, professionalism and accountability. That commitment is unwavering.”
The minister also called on the media, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders to promote responsible reporting, civic education and peaceful participation ahead of the elections.
He further urged Nigerian youths to reject political violence and contribute to a peaceful electoral process.
Reactions
Philippian King: Tnks for letting us know on time ,it means we should get to defend and protect ourselves that’s what the horses mouth has said.
Alex Suleiman Momoh: What are you guys saying this man is right now, you think if politicians wants violence our security agencies can stop it? Nawa ooo some people self no understand Nigeria politics
Inno Effiong: we that are born into Nigeria, are we really sure God love us??
Sixtus Chidozie: APC is the architect
Akinde Akinsola: Which means politicians will choose violent n no security for it ..ok we understand
Atala Musa: But if the electorate choose violence, there is enough plan to deal with them abi?
Musa Abdul Kadir: If you know what Intelligence means you will understand, just be cautious during election 2027 to come
Guti Owerri: What of if the masses chose violence
Emmy Greta Anzaku: It’s actually truth
But, you can as well, arrest any politicians that would try inciting violence..
Vincent Ndubueze: They are afraid well we will be peaceful if there is peace
Okey Okonkwo: You don collect rice?
Ralph Ayegba: According to our observation some candidates where not present
Favour Nnaji: See wetin our chief defender Dey talk
