Former Deputy Senate Majority Leader, Senator Bala Na’Allah, has cautioned that the 2027 general election could turn out to be one of the most perilous contests in Nigeria’s history. He pointed to escalating political tension, early assaults on supporters, and provocative statements from opposition leaders as major warning signs.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Thursday, Na’Allah voiced alarm over remarks indicating that disputes from the polls would be resolved on the streets instead of in courtrooms, according to Punch. He made specific reference to remarks attributed to former Kogi West senator, Dino Melaye, who reportedly stated that the opposition would bypass legal challenges to protect their ballots on the streets.
Na’Allah observed that having observed Nigerian politics closely since 1999, the present climate feels unusually tense. He noted that opposition parties seem determined to wrestle control from the ruling party at any cost, which could result in extreme measures during campaigns and efforts to guard votes.
The former federal lawmaker also highlighted recent reports of political violence, including attacks on vehicles in Kebbi State and alleged confrontations in Sokoto State. He argued that if such incidents are already surfacing this early before the main election season, polling day itself could become volatile.
Even so, Na’Allah stressed that maintaining peace and ensuring transparent voting requires effort from all political groups, especially the All Progressives Congress and the Federal Government. He stated that the authorities hold a constitutional duty to protect citizens and must lead by example to ensure an even playing field for every candidate.
When addressed on whether the APC was restricting rival parties from campaigning freely, Na’Allah maintained that the ruling party has issued no such orders. He characterised the unrest in Kebbi and Sokoto as isolated actions allegedly carried out by individuals, adding that political events in areas like Ekiti State had proceeded without violence.
Na’Allah represented the Kebbi South senatorial district and held the position of Deputy Majority Leader in the eighth Senate. Before his tenure in the red chamber, he also served as a member of the House of Representatives.
