Veteran journalist and Arise News co-host Reuben Abati has urged Nigerian security agencies to invite and question individuals making threats against opposition parties and their supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abati made the call during The Morning Show on Arise News on Friday, September 4, 2026, while discussing rising political tensions and controversial remarks by politicians.
Abati Questions Security Agencies
Reacting to threats directed at opposition groups, Abati questioned why security agencies had not taken action against those making such statements.
“Where are security operatives in Nigeria? All these people threatening opposition parties should be invited,” he said, according to a widely circulated video clip from the programme.
He called for security agencies to act against inflammatory rhetoric regardless of the political party or individual involved.
Gadaka’s Comment Comes Up
The discussion came against the backdrop of recent controversial remarks by Yobe State APC Chairman Alhaji Muhammad Gadaka.
Gadaka had urged married women whose husbands would not allow them to vote for the APC to divorce them, saying he would pay their bride price. He later apologised and withdrew the remark, describing it as a joke.
Abati Calls For Equal Enforcement
Abati stressed that political threats and hate speech should not be treated differently based on the political affiliation of the person making them.
He called for an approach without “sacred cows” as Nigeria moves towards the 2027 elections, arguing that security agencies have a role to play in preventing rhetoric that could heighten political tensions.
Concerns Over Political Rhetoric
Abati’s comments come amid wider concerns over inflammatory political statements ahead of the 2027 polls.
Amnesty International Nigeria has also warned against reckless, inciting and divisive rhetoric by politicians and their associates, calling for accountability where such statements violate applicable laws and threaten peaceful democratic participation.
The journalist’s remarks have generated discussion online about the role of security agencies in protecting opposition parties and ensuring a level playing field before the elections.
