Lafia: One Political Violence Too Many

By Rayyanu Bala

We had cause in the past, to draw the attention of supporters of various political aspirants in Lafia to the dangers of destroying the posters and billboards of their opponents. We argued that such actions amount to an attack on democratic values.

Political competition should be based on ideas, policies, and persuasion, not intimidation or vandalism. We also pointed out that the destruction of posters often serves as a precursor to political violence, creating tension that can later escalate into clashes between rival supporters. Unfortunately, our warning was not heeded.

On Friday, 8 May 2026, violence broke out during a political rally held in support of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada’s political movement at Tudun Gwandara in Lafia. One of his supporters, Abbas Rabiu, was killed during the clash. Had the security agencies acted proactively on the growing signs of political tension, the death of Abbas Rabiu might have been averted.

Following the Tudun Gwandara incident, a series of violent confrontations erupted between supporters of former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar Adamu and Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. Although the security agencies initiated investigations into the clashes with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice, yet no one was brought to justice.

And the violence persisted.

Most recently, on 15 June 2026, another clash occurred at Unguwar Gayam in Lafia between supporters of Mohammed Abubakar Adamu and Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. The incident resulted in injuries and the destruction of several vehicles.

As if that was not enough, Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, witnessed yet another violent incident yesterday, 29 July 2026, when billboards belonging to both Ahmed Aliyu Wadada and Mohammed Abubakar Adamu were vandalised with reckless abandon.

When political competition repeatedly degenerates into violence and public disorder, as witnessed in Lafia, it becomes a threat not only to democracy but also to the safety and well-being of ordinary citizens. This is one political crisis too many.

The recurring incidents have once again raised concerns about the growing culture of political intolerance in Lafia. While accusations have been exchanged between supporters of the opposing camps, it remains the responsibility of law enforcement agencies, not politicians or public opinion, to investigate these incidents impartially, establish the facts, and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

The rule of law must prevail over political influence. No political supporter, regardless of whose interests they represent, should operate under the impression that they are above the law. Violence, intimidation, and any act capable of disrupting public peace have no place in a democratic society.

Security agencies must rise to the occasion by acting professionally, fairly, and without bias. Every report of political violence deserves a prompt and thorough investigation. Those responsible must face the full weight of the law, while innocent citizens should be protected from becoming victims of political conflicts that do not serve their interests.

Political leaders also have a moral obligation to rein in their supporters. Leadership is measured not only by electoral success but also by the ability to promote peace, tolerance, and respect for democratic values. Every politician must make it unequivocally clear that violence carried out in their name is unacceptable.

As the political atmosphere gathers momentum ahead of the next general elections, the people of Lafia, and indeed Nasarawa State, deserve campaigns centred on ideas, policies, and development not fear, intimidation, or bloodshed. Democracy flourishes where disagreements are settled at the ballot box, not on the streets.

The time has come for all stakeholders both politicians, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and the electorate—to reject violence in all its forms. Lafia must not become synonymous with political unrest. Peace, justice, and the rule of law remain the only path to a stable, peaceful, and prosperous democratic society.