Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to conduct a thorough and effective investigation into a viral video in which the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, allegedly threatened political opponents and supporters of opposition parties.
The human rights organisation described the alleged remarks as reckless, irresponsible and unlawful, warning that threats and intimidation have no place in a democratic society.
According to Amnesty International, the commissioner was heard in the video making remarks suggesting that those who refused to obey or support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would be flogged.
“People must not be punished for their political choices,” the organisation said, stressing that elections are not acts of war and that citizens who choose to support or vote for opposition political parties should not be treated as enemies.
Amnesty International said the alleged remarks, reportedly made on August 29, 2026, raise serious concerns about political intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation urged relevant authorities to prevent any potential culture of impunity by ensuring that the incident is properly investigated and that appropriate action is taken where necessary.
It noted that the right of Nigerians to freely make political choices is protected under the Constitution, the Electoral Act and international human rights law.
“Ahead of the 2027 elections, some politicians are already overheating the polity through threats and intimidation directed at opponents, creating a toxic climate of fear,” Amnesty International warned.
The organisation further called on political parties and politicians to publicly condemn any advocacy of hatred or incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, stressing that democratic participation must be based on freedom of choice, tolerance and respect for the rule of law.
