Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, faced criticism following a viral video from a campaign event hosted by the Tinubu City Boy Movement. During the event, the commissioner suggested that political support could involve coercion alongside persuasion, warning that individuals who oppose the ruling party would face physical consequences while supporters would receive government benefits. 

Federal Capital Territory Warnings A similar controversy arose involving the chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Shekwolo. In a circulating video addressing constituents, the council chairman suggested that residents who do not support the All Progressives Congress should relocate ahead of the upcoming elections, linking government developmental projects to political loyalty.

Osun State Incident These developments follow a previous controversy involving Osun East Senatorial District representative Francis Fadahunsi regarding remarks made ahead of the August 2026 governorship election. The comments drew sharp criticism from civil society groups and calls for an investigation from Governor Ademola Adeleke. The senator subsequently clarified that his statements referred to an electoral defeat rather than physical conflict, and he was later questioned by the Osun State Police Command.

Civil society organizations have expressed growing apprehension that aggressive rhetoric from political figures could escalate tensions and threaten the freedom of citizens to participate in the democratic process without intimidation.