KEYAMO WARNS AGAINST VIOLENCE IN PROTECTING VOTES

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has warned Nigerians against taking up arms under the guise of protecting their votes during the 2027 general elections.

Keyamo gave the warning in a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, accusing some politicians of encouraging vulnerable citizens and political thugs to engage in deadly confrontations while allegedly sending their own children abroad to safety.

Recalling a warning issued by former President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2019 elections, Keyamo said anyone who resorts to self-help, carries dangerous weapons and attacks others in the name of protecting votes could be lawfully neutralised by security operatives.

He stressed that protecting the integrity of an election should not become an excuse for violence or attacks on other citizens.

The minister’s remarks come amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, with concerns over voter intimidation, political thuggery and electoral violence.