Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigeria Police Force has formally opened investigations into alleged inciting remarks made by three prominent political figures, signalling a tough stance against hate speech and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Police Anietie Iniedu, confirmed the development on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, during a joint security briefing with Defence Correspondents in Abuja.
The three individuals under investigation are Sainna Buba, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development; Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District; and Danjuma Shekwolo, the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the police, each of the three figures has been linked to separate controversial statements that have sparked widespread outrage and drawn condemnation from civil society organisations, political parties, and human rights groups. The most severe allegations surround Buba, who was captured in a viral video threatening to flog residents and cut off the hands of those who refuse to support the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections. In the video, the commissioner was heard warning critics against attacking the Borno State government. "Whoever raises their fingers against us, we will do the same to them. If you raise your fingers again, we will cut them off," he said. "This is our administration, follow us and drink the honey. Whoever does not follow us will be flogged". The remarks have drawn sharp condemnation from Amnesty International, which has called for the commissioner's immediate arrest and prosecution.
Similarly, Shekwolo, the Kuje Area Council Chairman, allegedly told residents of the council that they must either vote for the APC in 2027 or leave the area. The statement has been condemned by opposition parties, including the Accord Party and the African Democratic Congress, both of which have called for his arrest and prosecution. Senator Fadahunsi's case involves a viral video ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, in which he allegedly threatened members of the Accord Party. The police have already questioned the senator over the allegations. Iniedu confirmed that he was personally part of the team that interrogated Fadahunsi in Osun State.
Speaking at the briefing, Iniedu emphasised that inciting comments, particularly those relating to the electoral process, constitute a criminal offence under Nigerian law. "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," he said. He added that all the alleged inciting statements by the three political actors are currently under investigation and that the outcome would be made public. Iniedu also warned political stakeholders to desist from making inflammatory remarks.
The police spokesperson identified the reluctance of witnesses to come forward as one of the major challenges confronting criminal prosecution in the country. He urged members of the public to provide information and evidence without fear, saying their cooperation would assist the police and prosecutors in securing convictions. The police also confirmed that 154 persons arrested during the Osun State governorship election are currently undergoing investigation. The development comes amid growing concerns over the use of inflammatory rhetoric by political actors as the 2027 elections draw closer. The police have made it clear that they will not shy away from their responsibility to maintain law and order, "no matter whose ox is gored".
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