Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Steve Karimi, has alleged that the renewed wave of terrorism and banditry across parts of Nigeria may be politically motivated and designed to frustrate the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Busayo Tosin, the lawmaker linked the persistent insecurity to the recently released 2027 election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). According to the schedule, presidential and National Assembly elections are slated for February 20, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly polls will follow on March 6, 2027.
Karimi noted concerns raised by sections of the political class regarding the overlap between the election dates and the Muslim Ramadan fast, expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027. INEC, he said, may seek legislative guidance should any adjustment outside statutory provisions become necessary.
Security Operations Ongoing
The senator acknowledged ongoing military operations in Kwara, Nasarawa, Plateau, Benue and Taraba states, following deployments ordered by President Bola Tinubu through the Chief of Army Staff. Despite these interventions, he lamented that kidnappings and terrorist attacks persist in some communities, including reported incidents in parts of Kwara State that have triggered displacement among residents.
Karimi argued that the sustained insecurity, despite intensified military action, suggests “a correlation that is all too glaring” with the approaching 2027 elections. He alleged that certain interests are determined to destabilize the country and undermine the electoral process.
Cites Economic and Security Reforms
The senator maintained that the Tinubu administration has recorded significant economic and institutional reforms, citing improvements in foreign reserves, exchange rate stability and public sector welfare. He further referenced enhanced security collaborations with international partners, including the United States and Turkey, as well as joint operations with neighbouring countries such as Chad, Niger, Cameroon and Benin Republic.
He expressed optimism that recent restructuring within the military and evolving operational strategies would yield improved security outcomes. He also highlighted proposals to engage retired military personnel, expand forest guard deployments and recruit 50,000 police constables to strengthen internal security.
National Assembly’s Support
Karimi assured Nigerians that the National Assembly would continue to support the President’s efforts to ensure good governance, improved security and credible elections in 2027.
Quoting commendations from international financial institutions, he said Nigeria’s economic reforms have drawn global recognition and expressed confidence that the country would overcome its security challenges ahead of the polls.
