Outrage as NNPP’s Galadima tells voters to carry kerosene to polling centres in 2027
Buba Galadima, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has attracted widespread criticism after urging Nigerians to go to polling units with “bottles and jerry cans of kerosene” during the 2027 general elections, a remark many observers have described as inflammatory and dangerous.
Buba Galadima, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has attracted widespread criticism after urging Nigerians to go to polling units with “bottles and jerry cans of kerosene” during the 2027 general elections, a remark many observers have described as inflammatory and dangerous.
Galadima made the statement on Saturday at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement in Abuja, where he called on citizens to defend their votes “at all costs” amid rising political tensions ahead of the next election cycle.
His comments took a more controversial turn when he appeared to advocate extreme measures at polling units. “During the elections, whether I am alive or dead, go to the polling centres with your bottles and jerry cans of kerosene. Either they do what is right, or we all die there. So there will be no beneficiary,” he said.
The remarks have drawn concern from political observers and civil society groups, who warn that such rhetoric risks escalating tensions in an already charged political environment and could undermine public confidence in peaceful electoral processes.
Galadima also used the platform to accuse the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections. He alleged a broader strategy aimed at imposing a sole presidential candidate on Nigerians, though he did not provide evidence to support the claim.
Despite his criticisms, he expressed confidence that a united opposition could defeat the ruling party at the polls, pointing to ongoing coalition talks among various political blocs. According to him, Nigerians must remain resolute in pursuing democratic change through the ballot box.
He further raised concerns about what he described as systemic efforts to frustrate opposition parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Galadima referenced recent judicial developments, suggesting they could pose legal and procedural challenges for the party in fielding candidates within constitutional timelines.
“To any clever man, you should have known that a booby trap was set for ADC at the Supreme Court,” he said, alleging that certain rulings could hinder the party’s participation in the electoral process.
In addition, the elder statesman warned of potential threats to opposition figures, claiming that desperate political actors might resort to extreme tactics as the elections approach. While he did not cite specific incidents, his comments add to growing concerns about political safety and stability.
His statements come at a time of increasing political realignments, as opposition groups intensify efforts to build alliances capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027. Analysts say the coming months will likely see heightened rhetoric and strategic maneuvering across the political landscape.
However, critics argue that calls perceived as endorsing violence or intimidation at polling units could jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic gains and risk inflaming tensions among voters. They stress the importance of peaceful participation and adherence to electoral laws as the country prepares for another critical election cycle.
