A security affairs analyst, Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, has called for strict punishment for politicians who sponsor political violence and youth thuggery ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on rising concerns over political violence in Kano State and other parts of Northern Nigeria, Bakoji warned that the growing trend poses a major threat to democracy, public safety and national stability.
According to him, political thuggery should no longer be treated merely as youth restiveness but as a serious security issue capable of undermining peaceful elections and democratic governance.
He stressed that any politician found funding or encouraging violence during elections should be prosecuted, regardless of political status or influence.
“No political office is worth the blood or suffering of innocent citizens,” he said, while condemning the use of young people as tools for intimidation and violence during political contests.
Bakoji also urged security agencies to adopt intelligence-led policing strategies capable of identifying and dismantling violent political networks before attacks occur.
He recommended stronger collaboration among security agencies through joint operations, patrols and targeted raids in areas considered high-risk during elections.
The security analyst further called for increased deployment of modern surveillance technology, including CCTV cameras, drones and digital tracking systems, to monitor and prevent electoral violence.
He advised the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies to establish a comprehensive electoral security framework covering the periods before, during and after elections.
Bakoji additionally emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders and youth organisations to actively promote peace and discourage political violence.
Addressing the root causes of thuggery, he noted that unemployment and poverty continue to make many young people vulnerable to political manipulation and recruitment into violent activities.
He therefore advocated for youth empowerment programmes, vocational training, education and rehabilitation initiatives aimed at reducing involvement in electoral violence.
The analyst also proposed the creation of special fast-track courts to ensure speedy prosecution of electoral offenders, noting that swift justice would serve as a strong deterrent.
He concluded by urging politicians to focus on leadership, ideas and development rather than intimidation and violence as the 2027 elections approach.
