The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has warned Nigerians against taking up arms or engaging in violence under the guise of protecting their votes during the 2027 general elections.
Keyamo issued the warning on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in a post on his verified X account, where he accused some politicians of encouraging citizens and suspected thugs to engage in electoral violence while allegedly keeping their own children safely abroad.
The minister said protecting electoral mandates must not become an excuse for carrying dangerous weapons, attacking opponents or taking the law into one’s hands.
Referencing former President Muhammadu Buhari’s warning ahead of the 2019 general elections, Keyamo maintained that security operatives could lawfully use force against individuals who carry weapons and attack others during elections.
He warned that anyone who engages in such acts could face serious consequences in encounters with law enforcement officers.
Keyamo’s comments come amid growing political activities and heightened mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures urging voters to remain vigilant and defend their votes against electoral malpractice.
His remarks have renewed attention on the distinction between lawful efforts to safeguard electoral integrity and violent conduct that threatens public safety.
