Sainna Buba’s comment, made at a political campaign event for Tinubu’s re-election, has renewed concerns over inflammatory rhetoric and political intimidation ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has sparked controversy after threatening to “flog” people who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Buba made the statement in a video circulating on social media on Monday. The video was reportedly recorded during the inauguration of a campaign event organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group backing President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election.

While addressing supporters at the event, the commissioner said political engagement could sometimes involve persuasion or force, claiming that some individuals had been attacking the APC on social media platforms, particularly TikTok.

He warned that those who continued to oppose the party could face consequences, using the expression that they would be “flogged.”

“In politics, sometimes things go smoothly, sometimes it goes with persuasion, and sometimes it goes with force. Right now, we are being persuasive, but we’ve noticed they are throwing jabs at us on TikTok,” Buba said.

He went on to issue another warning, saying supporters of the APC would benefit from the government while those who refused to support the party would not enjoy the same benefits.

“If they point fingers at us, we will point fingers at them; if they point fingers at us with malicious intent, then we will hold that finger and break it,” he said.

“This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged.”

Buba also urged supporters to expect campaign materials and other benefits from the government as the 2027 election approaches.

The remarks have attracted attention because of the constitutional right of Nigerians to freely choose their preferred candidates and political parties during elections.

Kuje chairman issues similar warning

Buba’s comments came amid another controversial statement by Samuel Shekwolo, chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a video circulating on social media on Tuesday, Shekwolo warned residents who do not support the APC to leave the council ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The council chairman linked his position to what he described as developmental interventions by President Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in Kuje.

According to Shekwolo, residents who benefit from the administration’s projects should support the APC rather than vote for another party.

The comments have similarly raised questions about the extent to which access to government programmes and public resources should be linked to political allegiance.

Osun controversy adds to concerns

The latest controversy also comes against the backdrop of a recent political dispute in Osun State involving Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District.

Osun Election: Police Summon APC Senator Fadahunsi Over Viral ‘Kill Accord’ Remark

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Fadahunsi faced criticism over remarks concerning members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in the state.

His comments triggered condemnation from political opponents and civil society groups, while Governor Ademola Adeleke called for his arrest and investigation.

Fadahunsi subsequently denied advocating violence against political opponents. He explained that his remarks had been misconstrued and that he was referring to defeating the Accord Party through votes rather than physically attacking its members.

The senator was later invited by the Osun State Police Command, where he was questioned over the comments.

Growing concern over political rhetoric

The series of incidents has intensified concerns about the tone of political discourse in Nigeria as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.

Political parties and their supporters are expected to intensify campaigns in the coming months, with competition likely to become more heated as candidates and parties seek to consolidate support.

However, statements that appear to threaten opponents or suggest that citizens could be punished for supporting another political party have raised concerns among observers.

Nigeria’s electoral process is based on the principle that voters should be able to make their choices freely and without intimidation. Political disagreements are also expected to be settled through campaigns, debates and the ballot box rather than threats or violence.

Buba’s “flogged” remark, therefore, has placed renewed focus on the responsibility of political office holders and campaign groups to moderate their language and avoid rhetoric that could heighten tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

With the election still months away, the incidents have also highlighted the need for political leaders across party lines to reassure Nigerians that their political choices will be respected, regardless of which candidate or party they support.