2027: Security Agencies Alone Cannot Guarantee Peaceful Polls If Politicians Choose Violence – Defence Minister

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has said no security architecture, regardless of how sophisticated, can guarantee peaceful elections if political actors choose violence over dialogue.

He added that no electoral law can succeed where misinformation is allowed to replace truth.

“No security architecture, regardless of how sophisticated, can guarantee peaceful elections if political actors choose violence over dialogue. No electoral law can succeed where misinformation is allowed to replace truth. No democratic institution can flourish where citizens lose faith in the rule of law. The responsibility before us is therefore shared,” he said.

He continued, “Political parties must place national interest above partisan advantage, and candidates must recognise that political competition is not warfare.”

In a keynote address at the 8th Blue Print Newspapers Public Lecture, Impact Series and Award, on Tuesday Musa proposed a “Secure Framework” – strategic intelligence integration, threat assessment, protecting digital infrastructure, electoral cyber resilience, military coordination and unified strategic communications for strengthening election security in the country.

General Musa represented by the Senior Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy Major General Olufemi Akinjobe (Rtd) said the proposed six pillars would provide a practical pathway towards securing not only elections, but the democratic legitimacy upon which national stability depends.

The minister assured that the as the country moves towards the 2027, the ministry would work closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Independent National Electoral Commission and other relevant institutions, to ensure that all constitutionally assigned responsibilities in support of the electoral process are discharged professionally, impartially and effectively.

General Musa speaking on the theme of the lecture: “Security Challenges and Integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections” said, “Let me emphasise once again that the Armed Forces have no partisan interest in the outcome of elections. Our institutional interest is that Nigeria remains peaceful, united and secure, and that every lawful responsibility assigned to us is carried out with honour, professionalism and accountability. That commitment is unwavering.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria are, first and foremost, defenders of the Constitution. Our mandate is to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and, where lawfully authorised, to provide Military Aid to Civil Authority in support of other security agencies. This support is never partisan. It is constitutional. The Armed Forces owe allegiance neither to political parties nor to individual candidates. Our allegiance is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Our loyalty is to the Nigerian people. Our commitment is to peace, stability and the preservation of democratic order,” the minister said.

According to him, political parties must place national interest above partisan advantage, and candidates must recognise that political competition is not warfare.

“The media must continue to report with courage, accuracy and restraint, while civil society deepens civic education and promotes peaceful participation.

“Traditional and religious leaders must remain voices of moderation and reconciliation within their communities. Our young people, whose energy and innovation will define Nigeria’s future, must reject every attempt to recruit them as instruments of violence or manipulation their talents are needed not to disrupt democracy, but to strengthen it.

“Every institution has a role. Every citizen has a responsibility. Every vote carries not only a political choice but also a commitment to the future of our Republic.”