The Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has sparked controversy after threatening to flog individuals who refuse to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Buba made the remarks in a video circulating on social media on Monday, which captured an inauguration ceremony organised by the Tinubu City Boy Movement, a political support group campaigning for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

The commissioner said those who support the APC would benefit from the government, while warning that individuals who refuse to align with the party could face punitive measures.

He said political engagement sometimes involved persuasion and, in some circumstances, force.

“Right now, we are being persuasive, but we’ve noticed they are throwing jabs at us on TikTok. If they point fingers at us, we will point fingers at them.

“If they point fingers at us with malicious intent, then we will hold that finger and break it. This government is our government; follow us and enjoy honey. As for those who refuse to follow us, they will be flogged,” Buba said.

He also urged residents to expect campaign materials to be distributed across the state, saying they would provide benefits to the people.

The commissioner’s comments come amid growing concerns over inflammatory political statements ahead of the 2027 elections.

Recently, the chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Shekwolo, reportedly warned residents who do not support the APC to leave the council ahead of the elections.

In a video circulating on social media, Shekwolo linked his position to what he described as the developmental interventions of President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in Kuje.

He argued that residents who benefited from the administration’s projects should not subsequently vote against the APC.

Similarly, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, recently faced criticism over comments concerning supporters of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in the state.

His remarks triggered condemnation from political actors and civil society groups, while Governor Ademola Adeleke called for his arrest and investigation.

Fadahunsi later denied advocating violence, explaining that his comments had been misconstrued. According to him, he meant that the APC would defeat the Accord Party through votes rather than through physical attacks.

The senator was subsequently invited by the Osun State Police Command and questioned over the remarks.

Buba’s latest comments have again raised concerns about the increasingly heated tone of political discourse ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political observers have warned that threats, intimidation and inflammatory rhetoric by public officials and political actors could heighten tensions and undermine citizens’ constitutional right to freely choose their preferred political parties and candidates.