Key Takeaways
- The Nigeria Police Force has launched a comprehensive investigation into alleged inciting comments made by three prominent political figures.
- Those under probe include Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba; Kuje Area Council Chairman, Danjuma Shekwolo; and Senator Francis Fadahunsi representing Osun East.
- The police assert that inciting comments, particularly those related to the electoral process, are a serious criminal offense.
- Authorities are urging public cooperation, including providing witness statements and evidence, to aid in the prosecution of offenders.
- A major challenge highlighted by the police is the reluctance of witnesses to come forward and provide evidence in court.
The Nigeria Police Force's high command has announced the commencement of a critical probe into alleged inciting comments attributed to several high-profile political actors. This decisive action underscores the police's commitment to upholding law and order, especially in the sensitive context of the nation's electoral processes.
Among those currently under investigation are Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development; Danjuma Shekwolo, Chairman of the Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory; and Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East. The police action follows widespread reports and viral content detailing controversial remarks made by these individuals, which have raised concerns about electoral integrity and public peace.
Daily Trust reports indicate that Commissioner Buba allegedly threatened to flog residents and even cut off the hands of those who refused to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general election. Similarly, Chairman Shekwolo reportedly issued a stark warning to Kuje Area Council residents, stating they must either vote for the APC in 2027 or vacate the council. Senator Fadahunsi's alleged threats, captured in a viral video ahead of the Osun gubernatorial election, were reportedly directed at members of the Accord Party.
Speaking to Defence Correspondents at a joint security spokesmen briefing in Abuja, Force Spokesman Anietie Iniedu, a Chief Superintendent of Police, unequivocally described inciting comments, particularly those linked to the electoral process, as “a criminal offence.” Iniedu confirmed that authorities had already questioned Senator Fadahunsi regarding his alleged threats. He emphasized the police's unwavering resolve to maintain law and order, stating, “The law is very clear when it comes to inciting. It is criminal to incite members of the public, especially as you comment on the electoral process.”
The police spokesman reiterated the force's commitment to its constitutional responsibility, declaring, “The Nigeria Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and order and we will not shy away from this responsibility, no matter whose ox is gored.” He further disclosed that all alleged inciting statements by the political actors are currently under active investigation, and the outcomes will be made public. This transparency aims to reassure the public and deter future occurrences of such inflammatory rhetoric.
Iniedu also used the opportunity to caution all political stakeholders to “desist from such comments,” highlighting the potential legal ramifications. The Force appealed to members of the public to actively cooperate with investigators by providing statements and crucial evidence needed to prosecute suspected offenders. This call for public involvement is critical, as the police identified the reluctance of witnesses to come forward as a significant hurdle in criminal prosecution within the country.
“One of the challenges I must tell you now that we have, the law states that a case is made when there are two or three witnesses. He who alleges must prove his allegations,” Iniedu explained. “The challenge we have in Nigeria right now is that most of our witnesses are those who have evidence to the incident, and do not come forward when it is time to go to court.” The senior police officer urged citizens to provide information and evidence without fear, assuring that their cooperation would significantly assist the police and prosecutors in securing convictions and ensuring justice prevails.
Why This Matters
The police's swift action against alleged inciting comments by prominent political figures is crucial for safeguarding Nigeria's democratic process and ensuring peaceful elections. Holding individuals accountable for inflammatory rhetoric sends a strong message that political power does not grant immunity from the law, thereby fostering a more responsible and less volatile political landscape.