AAC presidential candidate questions assurances of security agencies’ neutrality ahead of Nigeria’s next general election
African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised Defence Minister Christopher Musa over his assurance that security agencies will remain neutral during Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Sowore accused the minister of being politically aligned with President Bola Tinubu and questioned whether he could guarantee impartiality during the electoral process.
In a post on X, the activist described Musa as a “retired loudmouth” and alleged that he had failed in his responsibilities as a serving military general.
“He should leave 2027 alone and face insecurity,” Sowore wrote.
Musa assures Nigerians of electoral neutrality
Musa gave the assurance on Thursday, October 15, after a security meeting with Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting was attended by heads of security agencies and focused on national security and preparations for the forthcoming elections.
According to the minister, Tinubu directed security agencies to ensure that the 2027 elections are free, fair and credible.
Musa said security personnel would perform their duties professionally and allow Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation, regardless of their political affiliations.
He also said the government had directed security agencies to intensify operations against terrorists and bandits and work to rescue people held in captivity.
Sowore questions the minister’s credibility
Sowore’s criticism centres on whether the government can guarantee that security agencies will act impartially during an election in which Tinubu could seek another term.
The AAC candidate’s comments reflect concerns about the role of security personnel in protecting voters, candidates and political parties during campaigns and on election day.
However, Sowore’s allegation that Musa is acting as a partisan supporter of Tinubu has not been independently established in the reports cited.
Musa, for his part, has publicly stated that security agencies will remain neutral and will not intimidate candidates or prevent political parties from participating in the elections.
Security and elections remain major concerns
The exchange comes as Nigeria continues to face security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in several parts of the country.
While political parties are beginning to focus on the 2027 elections, the effectiveness of security operations remains an important issue for citizens and policymakers.
The credibility of the electoral process will depend not only on public assurances but also on how security agencies conduct themselves before, during and after voting.
For now, Sowore has challenged the defence minister to prioritise the country’s security problems, while Musa has maintained that the government is committed to protecting voters and ensuring professional conduct by security personnel during the elections.
