A security affairs analyst, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, has called for severe penalties against politicians who back or promote political violence as the 2027 elections approach. He argued that such actions gravely endanger democracy and national stability.
In an exclusive chat with DAILY POST on Friday, Bakoji emphasized that political thuggery in Kano State and other northern regions should be viewed as a critical security threat, not merely youthful misconduct. He stated, “Political thuggery undermines democratic stability and peaceful coexistence.”
He insisted that any politician supplying funds or encouragement for electoral violence must face the full force of the law, irrespective of their status or power. “Those who finance violence must be accountable—governors, senators, lawmakers, and all candidates seeking office,” he declared.
Bakoji cautioned that using young people as instruments of political violence jeopardizes democracy’s future and endangers innocent lives. “No political position is worth the blood or suffering of citizens,” he added.
To combat this issue, he urged intelligence-driven policing, advising security forces to identify and dismantle criminal networks before violence breaks out. He also advocated for stronger inter-agency cooperation through joint operations, including coordinated patrols and raids in vulnerable areas.
Technology, he noted, should play a vital role. “The government should invest in modern surveillance such as CCTV in public spaces, markets, motor parks, and entry points, and also deploy drones and digital tracking tools,” Bakoji said.
He further called on INEC and security agencies to establish a robust electoral security framework for before, during, and after elections to ensure peaceful processes. Community engagement is also key: traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups must actively participate in peacebuilding and violence prevention.
Regarding unemployment, Bakoji pointed out that many youths turn to thuggery due to joblessness and manipulation. “We need youth empowerment, vocational training, education, and rehabilitation programs to reduce their recruitment into violence,” he stressed.
He also recommended the creation of special fast-track courts to expedite prosecution of electoral offenders. “Swift justice will deter others,” he noted.
Concluding, Bakoji warned politicians to change their tactics ahead of 2027, insisting elections should center on ideas, leadership, and development—not intimidation or violence. “Any political system reliant on violence threatens democracy and national unity,” he stated.