2027: Keyamo Warns Against Violence in Protecting Votes

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has warned Nigerians against taking up arms or resorting to violence under the guise of protecting their votes during the 2027 general elections.

Keyamo issued the warning in a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, amid growing political activities ahead of the polls.

The minister accused some politicians of encouraging citizens and suspected thugs to engage in violent confrontations during elections while allegedly ensuring the safety of their own children by sending them abroad.

“After safely ferrying their children abroad, some unscrupulous politicians are encouraging hapless citizens and thugs to take up weapons to kill one another under the pretext of ‘protecting their votes’,” he wrote.

Keyamo also referred to a warning issued by former President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2019 general elections, saying he supported the position then and continued to stand by it.

He argued that anyone who resorts to self-help, carries dangerous weapons and attacks others under the pretext of protecting votes could be lawfully stopped by security operatives in the course of their duties.

The minister’s remarks have drawn attention to the distinction between peaceful efforts to safeguard electoral integrity and the use of violence during the voting process.

Keyamo’s comments come as political parties and stakeholders intensify preparations for the 2027 elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for February 6.

The debate over vote protection remains significant as Nigerians prepare for another general election, with concerns over electoral credibility, voter intimidation and political violence continuing to feature in public discussions.

Keyamo’s warning underscores the need for citizens to pursue electoral accountability through lawful and peaceful means rather than armed confrontation.