By Titus Eleweke
Anambra-born human rights lawyer and lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has warned against the growing signs of political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In his Monday Musings titled “When Democracy Begins to Smell of Gunpowder: The Dangerous Rise of Political Violence,” Ejiofor said incidents involving rival supporters, political rallies and billboard controversies could escalate if not addressed.
He cited reports of a confrontation involving supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso in Warri, Delta State, as well as a controversy over the removal of political billboards belonging to Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere and other candidates in Ideato, Imo State.
Ejiofor said the incidents, whether isolated or otherwise, should serve as a warning against the normalisation of political confrontation.
According to him, political disagreements should be settled through dialogue, lawful protest, civic engagement and the ballot rather than violence.
“Political billboards are not worth human blood. Political parties are not worth the destruction of friendships, communities or lives,” he said.
The lawyer also cautioned youths against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political violence, noting that young people often bear the consequences while political sponsors remain removed from the immediate danger.
He further urged security agencies to operate within their constitutional responsibilities and said disputes involving political campaigns and signage should be handled through lawful civil processes.
Ejiofor appealed to political actors and citizens to reject violence as the 2027 elections approach, stressing that political office is temporary while human life remains irreplaceable.
“Let us disagree passionately, compete vigorously and organise courageously, but let us never make violence the language of our democracy,” he said.
Tags: #2027Elections #PoliticalViolence #Nigeria
