2027: Call Nwifuru to order over threats against opposition – Coalition tells Tinubu

The Nigerian Youth Organisation, NYO, a coalition of youth groups, has called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to caution Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru over threats to opposition political parties in the state ahead of 2027 elections

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Comrade Nasir Doka, the Deputy National President of the group, urged security agencies to take note of the “inflammatory rhetoric” from Governor Nwifuru against political actors in the state, especially the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the South-East.

Doka stated that the threats portends danger and cautioned that public office holders must recognise the influence of their words and the responsibility that comes with leadership.

According to Doka, the governor’s comments have generated concern among many Nigerians, particularly young people, who view such language as capable of being interpreted as threatening, intimidating, or inconsistent with the spirit of democratic engagement.

“The Nigeria Youth Organization considers it necessary to draw national attention to the gravity of such rhetoric when it emanates from the office of a sitting governor,” he said.

The NYO stated that it “firmly believes that democracy is sustained by tolerance, dissent, criticism, and competition of ideas. No democracy can flourish where citizens become afraid to express political opinions. No democracy can thrive where opposition voices fear intimidation. No democracy can mature where criticism of government is perceived as hostility”.

“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of expression, freedom of association, and political participation.

“These rights are not privileges granted by government officials. They are constitutional rights belonging to every Nigerian citizen.

“Therefore, any statement capable of creating the impression that critics or political opponents may face consequences beyond the democratic processes deserves serious public scrutiny,” it added.

The NYO, therefore, called on stakeholders in the democratic process to be more vigilant in guarding against any actions that may pose danger to Nigeria’s democracy and Nigeria’s corporate existence.

“We urge the governor to publicly reaffirm his commitment to political tolerance, freedom of expression, and the constitutional rights of all citizens irrespective of political affiliation.

“We call upon relevant security institutions to remain vigilant and ensure that no individual or group interprets political rhetoric as a licence for intimidation, harassment, or violence.

“We urge all political parties and public office holders across Nigeria to embrace responsible communication and avoid statements capable of escalating political tensions.

“To the people of Ebonyi State, particularly the youth population, we urge calm, restraint, and unwavering commitment to peace,” the statement said.