1,639 Killed in Nigeria's Electoral Violence Since 1999

Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, lamented that Nigeria has recorded 1,639 deaths due to electoral violence from 1999 to 2023, describing this figure as a national burden that should not continue. He made this statement during an Eid el-Kabir message on Wednesday, warning political actors against inciting violence and emphasizing that no Nigerian, regardless of age, deserves to die for political competition.

Bamidele cited data from armed conflict location events, detailing the number of lives lost in various election years: 80 in 1999, 100 in 2003, 300 in 2007, 800 in 2011, 100 in 2015, 150 in 2019, and 109 in 2023. He urged the nation not to repeat past tragedies and called for a commitment to peace and coexistence, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.

Bamidele also highlighted the need for political parties and candidates to prioritize national heritage over partisan interests to prevent further loss of life.