The Nigeria Police Force has assured Nigerians of its commitment to protecting lives and property during the 2027 general elections. At a workshop organised by the FCT Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, stated that the police have a responsibility to maintain law and order, and provide a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights. Disu's remarks were delivered by AIG Akaninyene Ezima, Director of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre.
The Inspector-General of Police emphasised the crucial role of the media in election security, describing journalists as important partners. He noted that the media has the power to shape public understanding of developments during the electoral process. Disu urged journalists to exercise responsibility in their reporting, particularly when it comes to sensitive security reports that could create fear or trigger confrontation. He also highlighted the challenges of false information spreading rapidly through social media.
Disu advised journalists to verify information before publication, citing recycled videos, fabricated statements, and artificial intelligence-generated content as some of the challenges facing election reporting. He stressed that a verified news report can calm an anxious community, while a responsible journalist can prevent a rumour from becoming violence. The IG also called for stronger communication between security agencies and journalists ahead of the elections.
The Nigeria Police Force is committed to remaining accessible, transparent, and responsive to legitimate media inquiries. Disu stated that the police need the media, and the media needs credible security information. He emphasised that Nigeria needs both institutions to work responsibly in the public interest. The IG urged journalists to report responsibly before, during, and after the elections.
The period after the polls could be as sensitive as Election Day, Disu noted. He encouraged journalists to be mindful of their reporting, as the 2027 elections will come and go, but Nigeria will remain. The communities will remain, and citizens will continue to live together after the headlines have disappeared. Disu's remarks underscored the importance of responsible reporting in maintaining public trust.
The NUJ FCT chairperson, Grace Ike, also addressed the workshop, urging journalists to protect confidential sources, victims, and vulnerable witnesses. She called on security agencies to engage transparently with journalists and respect press freedom. Ike also urged media organisations to strengthen fact-checking systems and provide continuous training for reporters. She emphasised that responsible reporting can help protect communities and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
The Nigeria Police Force's pledge to protect lives and property during the 2027 general elections is a significant development. The Inspector-General of Police's call for responsible reporting and stronger communication between security agencies and journalists highlights the crucial role of the media in election security. As the elections approach, the police and media must work together to ensure a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
Key points
- The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to protect lives and property during the 2027 general elections.
- The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, emphasised the crucial role of the media in election security.
- The police and media must work together to ensure a secure environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
