Agbedi warned that violence, intimidation and destruction of property during political engagements could discourage citizens from exercising their democratic rights and undermine public confidence in the electoral process
By Mmesoma Onwuka
The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into reported attacks on political gatherings and supporters across the country, warning that the growing incidents could threaten peaceful political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Frederick Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa), and 16 other lawmakers during Thursday’s plenary.
The motion, titled “Need to Arrest the Rising Violence During Political Campaign Activities,” seeks to establish the causes of attacks linked to political activities and recommend measures to prevent further incidents.
Presenting the motion, Agbedi warned that violence, intimidation and destruction of property during political engagements could discourage citizens from exercising their democratic rights and undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
He cited the disruption of political meetings in Enugu State on September 12, 2026, during which two participants reportedly sustained injuries. He also referred to an alleged death linked to the incident, although the casualty was not established as a confirmed police report.
The lawmaker further recalled the October 28 attack on APC supporters travelling to a political rally in Katsina State, which reportedly led to the arrest of 14 suspects by the police.
He also cited the disruption of an APC rally in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on November 4, where several participants sustained injuries.
Another incident highlighted was the November 7 attack on a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, which the police reportedly said resulted in one death and five injuries.
Agbedi said such attacks threatened fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, particularly freedom of association and peaceful assembly under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution.
He also referenced Section 14(2)(b), which identifies the security and welfare of citizens as the primary responsibility of government, and Section 88(1), which empowers the National Assembly to investigate matters within its legislative competence.
The Minority Leader cautioned against prematurely blaming individuals or groups for the incidents, stressing that impartial investigations based on credible evidence were necessary to establish responsibility.
In its resolution, the House condemned all forms of violence, intimidation, assault and destruction of property associated with political rallies, meetings, processions and other lawful political activities, irrespective of the parties or individuals involved.
Lawmakers also urged political parties, candidates and supporters to shun inflammatory statements, reject violence and cooperate with security agencies to maintain public order.
To conduct the probe, the House constituted an ad hoc committee chaired by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.
The committee comprises the House Leader, Minority Leader, chairmen and deputy chairmen of the Committees on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence, as well as two additional members drawn from the committees.
It is expected to investigate the immediate and underlying causes of political violence nationwide and submit its report to the House within three weeks.
The investigation comes as political parties intensify consultations, rallies and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, amid concerns that continued attacks could lead to further casualties and weaken public confidence in the democratic process.