2027: No Plan To Militarise Elections — CDI

The Centre for Democracy and Integrity (CDI) has said there is no plan by the Federal Government to militarise the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians to disregard concerns suggesting that the military could take over election security.

The group said the Armed Forces should only provide support to civilian security agencies when necessary and within the provisions of the law.

The statement comes amid renewed discussions over the role of security agencies in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has previously stated that the Nigeria Police Force remains the lead agency responsible for election security, while military involvement should be limited to exceptional circumstances where security conditions require support for civil authorities.

CDI said the military’s constitutional responsibilities should not be confused with political participation, stressing that members of the Armed Forces are expected to remain non-partisan while carrying out lawful assignments.

The organisation also called on political parties and candidates to avoid statements or actions capable of creating unnecessary tension before, during and after the elections.

It urged security agencies to maintain professionalism, neutrality and respect for citizens’ rights throughout the electoral process.

The Federal Government has similarly directed security agencies to remain impartial ahead of the 2027 elections. President Bola Tinubu has charged the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation, feel protected and to avoid being perceived as an instrument of any political interest.

The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has also said the Armed Forces have no partisan interest in the outcome of elections, describing their role as one of supporting civil authorities where lawfully authorised.

CDI said public confidence in the electoral process would depend partly on the conduct of security agencies and other institutions involved in the elections.

The organisation further urged Nigerians to reject misinformation and avoid actions that could undermine peaceful participation.

The 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections in participating states are scheduled for February 6, 2027.

As preparations continue, stakeholders are expected to focus on strengthening election security, protecting voters and ensuring that security personnel operate within their constitutional and legal mandates.