The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has warned citizens against resorting to violence or taking up weapons under the pretext of defending their ballots in the 2027 general elections.
​In an official statement issued on Tuesday morning, November 3, 2026, in Abuja, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria raised concerns over inflammatory political rhetoric, accusing opportunistic politicians of encouraging ordinary citizens to kill one another for political ambition.
​Keyamo asserted that while electoral vigilance is essential for democracy, “protecting votes” offers no legal cover for civil disturbance, weapon possession, or violence. He warned that security personnel are legally empowered to neutralize anyone who attacks others or incites violence at polling units.
​”No citizen has the legal right to bear arms or unleash violence on others under the guise of guarding votes,” Keyamo stated. “Politicians must stop pushing unsuspecting citizens into harm’s way, and voters must understand that democratic grievances can only be resolved through the legal system and the ballot box.”
​The Minister’s remarks align with recent directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, recently emphasized the need for political parties and stakeholders to adhere strictly to the electoral framework and maintain peace as the commission prepares for the upcoming polls.
