The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has challenged the Nigeria Police Force to disclose the status of investigations into alleged inflammatory statements by three political figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group specifically demanded action in the cases involving Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District; Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Abuja, Samuel Shekwolo; and Borno State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba.

HURIWA said the police must move beyond invitations and public warnings and prosecute anyone found to have violated the law after due investigation.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, yesterday, the group said repeated warnings by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies against threats, intimidation and inflammatory political rhetoric would have little effect if alleged offenders were not held accountable.

HURIWA recalled that a video circulated shortly before the August 15 governorship election in Osun State in which Fadahunsi allegedly called on supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to retaliate against members of the Accord Party in Ilesa.

The group said the senator was subsequently invited by the police following public concerns over the statement, but questioned whether the invitation had resulted in a formal investigation or any other lawful action.

HURIWA said an invitation should not become a substitute for prosecution where an investigation establishes that a criminal offence was committed.

It also raised concerns over the case involving Shekwolo, who was reportedly captured in a widely circulated video threatening residents who did not support the APC.

According to HURIWA, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) subsequently called for his arrest and prosecution over the alleged conduct, which it described as intimidation and an assault on constitutional and democratic principles.

The group urged the police to disclose the current status of the matter, stressing that residents must be free to support any political party or candidate of their choice without fear of intimidation or punishment.

On Buba, HURIWA said a video allegedly showing the commissioner threatening opposition supporters with punishment if they refused to support the APC also required investigation.

The group said that if the statement was established to have been made as alleged, the commissioner should be subjected to the relevant legal process.

HURIWA maintained that holding public office should not confer immunity from accountability for statements or actions that violate the law.

The association urged the police, INEC, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Peace Committee to respond decisively to political statements capable of undermining peaceful participation in the 2027 elections.

It warned that selective enforcement of electoral and criminal laws could create the perception that political connections shield individuals from accountability.

“If incitement is a criminal offence, the law must apply equally to everybody, regardless of political party, position or influence,” HURIWA said.

The group also urged political parties to discipline members whose public statements threaten peaceful political participation.

HURIWA said the 2027 elections must not become a contest of threats, intimidation and violence, urging security agencies to intervene before inflammatory rhetoric translates into physical attacks and loss of lives.

It called on the police to publicly disclose the status of investigations involving Fadahunsi, Shekwolo and Buba and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.

The group said the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy would be tested not only at the ballot box but also by the willingness of state institutions to enforce the law without fear or favour.