As the 2027 general elections approach, and with the spate of kidnapping, killings, and general insecurity across the nation, there are palpable fears that if insecurity is left unchecked, it may negatively affect the conduct and the outcome of the elections.
Widespread kidnapping, killings, and destruction of property, particularly in states like Borno, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger have left many communities in ruin. Residents of affected areas have continued to face displacement, loss of livelihoods, and deep psychological trauma.
In Kaduna State, for example, almost on a daily basis, residents in some communities face challenges of abduction, killing, and demands for ransom. In April 2026 alone, during Easter, over 30 worshippers were kidnapped from Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Five persons were killed, and a ransom of N1 billion was later demanded.
On Monday, 20/4/2026, bandits launched a fresh attack on Awon community in Kaduna State, killing two residents and abducting at least, seven others.
On April 1, 2026, suspected bandits abducted six people during Taraweeh prayers at a mosque in Azara community of Kachia LGA of the state.
Speaking to DAILY POST correspondent in Kaduna, Dr. Samson Abdul, Head of Department of Political Science, University of Abuja, said that without peace, nothing could be achieved.
According to him, most communities across the country where kidnapping and killings are taking place have no peace, just as some of them are presently in IDP camps because their houses and properties were burnt and they have no means of livelihood.
“I am telling you from experience, because I was once a victim. There is no rest of mind. The entire residents of communities where kidnapping took place will have no rest of mind for the next two to three years because they either lost a relative or sold their valuable properties like houses, cars, and land to pay for ransom.”
Also speaking, Mallam Abdulraham Yakubu, former Kaduna State PDP House of Assembly candidate in the 2015 general election, said that without tackling insecurity across the country, the 2027 general election is a mirage, as fear may not allow voters to come out to vote for candidates of their choice.
According to him, “If elections were to be held today, with the rate of killings and kidnapping going on, voters will be scared because of attacks. Several residents in areas where attacks take place were displaced, without knowing where their voter cards are. Even the lives of aspirants and election officers are in danger. Nobody will like to risk his or her life to vote where the security of lives and properties is not guaranteed.”
In his words, Major General Nureeden Adebayo (rtd), who operates a private security organisation, said the number of security operatives, including police, army, NSCDC, etc. is not enough to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
“Apart from that, the few existing number of security personnel are reducing every day. Today, you hear 20, 30, 10, or 5 security operatives are killed by bandits. Some are due for retirement, some are sick, etc. Where are the security operatives to stand firm against bandits and insurgents during elections?” he asked.
He advised the electoral body and politicians seeking various elective positions to shelve the 2027 general elections and first tackle the rising insecurity first.
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