Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has cautioned politicians against inflammatory rhetoric and actions capable of threatening Nigeria’s peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Bamidele, who is also Chairman of the South-West Caucus in the National Assembly, gave the warning in an Independence Day statement issued in Abuja on Thursday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

He acknowledged the right of political parties, candidates and other actors to exercise their political rights, but stressed that such rights must be exercised within the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026 and the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

The Senate Leader warned that political freedom did not extend to hate speech, inflammatory comments or actions capable of triggering political unrest and ethno-religious violence before, during or after the elections.

He urged political parties and their candidates to conduct their campaigns peacefully, with decorum, patriotism and restraint, while respecting the rules governing the electoral process.

Bamidele said every political aspiration was legitimate in a democracy, but should not be pursued at the expense of national peace and stability.

He described Nigeria as a collective heritage that was greater than the political ambitions of any individual, party or candidate, urging political actors to protect rather than undermine the country’s unity.

“As political parties and their candidates campaign across the states of the federation and unveil their agenda for the future of our fatherland, such an agenda must align with the wishes and aspirations of our founding fathers,” he said.

The lawmaker’s warning comes as political parties and their candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with campaign activities expected to increase in the coming months.

Bamidele also expressed concern over reports of intimidation and political thuggery in parts of the country, urging political actors to place national unity and democratic stability above personal and partisan interests.

He said Nigeria’s 66 years of independence should remind political leaders of their responsibility to protect the country’s democratic institutions and ensure that political competition does not threaten peaceful coexistence.

The Senate Leader called on politicians and citizens to uphold the rule of law and contribute to a peaceful electoral process as the country prepares for the 2027 elections.