Reps to probe attacks on political rallies and supporters

The House of Representatives on Thursday, November 12, resolved to investigate violence at political rallies, meetings and processions across Nigeria following reports of deaths, injuries and attacks on party supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The House adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Minority Leader Frederick Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa) and 16 other lawmakers. It directed its committees on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence to investigate the immediate and underlying causes of the violence and recommend measures to prevent further attacks. A principal officer of the House will lead the inquiry, and the committees are to report back within three weeks.

Presenting the motion, Agbedi cited an attack during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, on 7 November that police said left one person dead and five others injured. He also cited violence at an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on 4 November, where several people were reportedly injured.

Agbedi said police reportedly arrested 14 suspects after an attack on APC supporters travelling to a rally in Katsina State on 28 October. He also pointed to the disruption of political meetings in Enugu State on 12 September, in which two attendees were reportedly injured and one person was allegedly killed, and raised concerns about reports of violence in Calabar, Cross River State.

“Attacks, intimidation and destruction of property connected with political activities may cause further loss of life and injury, discourage citizens from participating in lawful political activities and undermine public confidence in the electoral process,” he said.

Agbedi said the attacks threatened the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of association. He urged investigators to establish responsibility based on evidence.

The House condemned violence, intimidation, assault and property destruction linked to lawful political activities. It urged parties, candidates and their supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, discourage violence and cooperate with security agencies to maintain public order.