2027 Poll: Those Who Refuse to Follow Us Will Be Flogged — Borno Commissioner

The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has sparked controversy after threatening to “flog” residents who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Buba made the controversial remark in a video circulating on social media on Monday during the inauguration of a campaign organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The commissioner said political engagement could involve persuasion or force, claiming that the group had initially chosen to persuade those opposed to the APC but had faced attacks from critics on social media.

He said, “If they point fingers at us, we will point fingers at them; if they point fingers at us with malicious intent, then we will hold that finger and break it.”

Buba further urged residents to support the APC, promising that those who backed the party would benefit from the government.

“This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged,” he said.

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He also told supporters that campaign materials would be brought into the state for residents to benefit from.

The remark has renewed concerns over the increasingly heated tone of political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections, with critics warning that threats and inflammatory statements by political actors could heighten political tension and undermine citizens’ freedom to support parties of their choice.

The development comes against the backdrop of similar controversies involving political figures and comments perceived as threatening opponents.

Recently, the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Shekwolo, also came under criticism after a video emerged in which he told residents who did not support the APC to leave the council.

Shekwolo reportedly linked his position to developmental interventions by President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, arguing that residents should not benefit from the administration’s projects and subsequently vote against the APC in 2027.

Similarly, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, was recently criticised over comments concerning members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

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His remarks attracted condemnation from political actors and civil society groups, while Governor Ademola Adeleke called for his arrest and investigation.

Fadahunsi later denied promoting violence, maintaining that his comments had been misconstrued and that he was referring to defeating the Accord Party through votes rather than physical attacks.

He was subsequently invited and questioned by the Osun State Police Command over the comments.

With the 2027 elections approaching, the latest statement from the Borno commissioner has once again raised questions about the need for political leaders and their supporters to promote issue-based campaigns and respect Nigerians’ constitutional right to freely choose their preferred political parties and candidates.