Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to thoroughly investigate alleged threats made by Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, against people who refuse to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The human rights organisation expressed concern over a viral video in which Buba was heard warning that people who refuse to support the ruling party would be “flogged” and making a separate reference to breaking the fingers of people who allegedly point fingers at members of the government.

Amnesty said the Nigerian authorities must thoroughly and effectively investigate the video and take appropriate action if the allegations are established.

The organisation’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over inflammatory political rhetoric as parties and political groups intensify preparations for the 2027 elections

Buba reportedly made the comments at a campaign inauguration organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group campaigning for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

In the video, the commissioner said political engagement could involve persuasion or force and warned critics who, according to him, were attacking the government on social media.

He subsequently said those who refused to follow the APC would be flogged, while urging supporters to benefit from the government.

The remarks have triggered widespread reactions, with opposition groups and civil society organisations raising concerns about their implications for political freedom and the safety of citizens who support parties other than the APC.

The Obi/Kwanwkaso Movement in Borno has also demanded accountability, saying it would defend its members through lawful and democratic means and would seek an investigation if any of its members were harmed in connection with the reported threats.

Amnesty’s intervention has placed renewed attention on the responsibility of government officials to avoid statements that could be interpreted as threats or encouragement of political violence.

The organisation’s position is that the allegations should be properly investigated rather than left unresolved.

The controversy also comes against the backdrop of other politically charged statements ahead of the 2027 elections, prompting renewed calls for political actors to exercise restraint and respect citizens’ constitutional rights to freely choose their preferred political parties and candidates.

For now, there is no indication from the reports reviewed that Buba has been arrested or formally charged over the remarks. The focus of Amnesty’s demand is for the authorities to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action based on the findings.

The controversy is likely to keep the spotlight on the conduct of public officials as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, particularly over whether political rhetoric could contribute to intimidation or undermine voters’ freedom of choice.