The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Saturday warned that reckless statements and online attacks in Nigeria’s political space could trigger violence.

His caution came on the heels of the murder of American conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead in Arizona on Thursday outside a public event.

The 31-year-old Kirk founded the right-wing organisation Turning Point USA, and his killing has sparked debates in the United States about rising political extremism and threats against public figures.

Keyamo, in a post on his X handle, said the killing should serve as a sober lesson, as it underscored the dangers of toxic political exchanges.

“The condemnable murder of Charlie Kirk in America holds a significance for us in Nigeria.

“The things we say and post in our intellectual contestations over political issues in our country can unwittingly rile others up to take extreme actions.

“Let us therefore eschew threats of violence, bigotry and hate speeches in these exchanges because anyone can end up as the victim,” he said.

Keyamo further stressed that resorting to insults, threats or intimidation in political debates was not a sign of strength but of weakness.

“It is extreme cowardice to threaten, abuse or humiliate others who do not agree with your political views or do not worship your political demi gods.

“A resort to abuse or threats or even personal attacks is a sign that you have lost the intellectual contestation.

“You cannot force others in a free democracy to accept your point of view through threats of violence or intimidation,” the minister said.

He clarified that his message was not targeted at a particular party or group but a general call across Nigeria’s political divides.

Keyamo said Nigeria must learn from such incidents and avoid creating an atmosphere where heated rhetoric could lead to tragedy.