NSA Warns Against Violence Ahead of Anambra Governorship Election

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a stern warning that any acts of violence during the upcoming Anambra State governorship election will be met with firm and immediate response from Nigeria’s security agencies.

Ribadu, represented by Hassan Yahaya Abdullahi, Director of Internal Security at the NSA’s office, delivered the warning on Tuesday during a high-level meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) with officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja. The meeting was convened to review security arrangements and ensure that the November 8, 2025, election is conducted peacefully.

Speaking at the meeting, Ribadu said the federal government has implemented comprehensive security measures to safeguard the electoral process. He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), along with other security agencies, is fully prepared to maintain law and order before, during, and after the polls.

“As we prepare for the Anambra governorship election, we have put in place robust security measures, including enhanced surveillance, strategic deployment of security personnel, and improved intelligence gathering to prevent any attempt by disruptive elements or desperate politicians to undermine the electoral process,” Ribadu stated.

The NSA’s office emphasised that any threats to the safety of voters, election officials, or electoral materials will be met with decisive action. Ribadu warned that the federal government will not tolerate political thuggery or attempts to disrupt the election, underscoring the seriousness with which security agencies are approaching the event.

During the meeting, officials from ICCES and INEC also discussed inter-agency coordination, strategies for rapid response to security incidents, and the protection of polling units and election materials. They stressed the importance of ensuring that voters could exercise their rights freely and safely, without fear of intimidation or violence.

The NSA reiterated that these preparations are part of the federal government’s broader commitment to a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process in Anambra State. He urged political actors and citizens alike to cooperate with security agencies, warning that any form of disruption will trigger swift enforcement measures.

With just days to the election, Ribadu’s warning signals a zero-tolerance approach to election-related violence and highlights the federal government’s resolve to protect the democratic process and maintain peace across the state.

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