The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has directed senior police officers to prepare for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. He gave the charge at the sixth Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers (CARSPO) 2026 in Owerri, Imo State. The conference focused on developing a roadmap for effective management of security during elections. IGP Disu emphasized the importance of preparing ahead of election day to protect voters, electoral officials, materials, and the integrity of the electoral process.
IGP Disu stressed that police responsibility covers the entire electoral cycle, from intelligence gathering and planning to training, deployment, protection of electoral personnel, and rapid response to threats. He directed Commissioners of Police to map electoral flashpoints, strengthen early-warning systems, train personnel in crowd management and human-rights-compliant policing, and establish clear communication channels with the public. This, he said, would ensure a safe and secure environment for the electoral process.
The IGP also charged police officers to put professionalism, intelligence, and accountability at the heart of election security. He warned politicians and their supporters against recruiting thugs, vote-buying, arms movement, and intimidation of voters or electoral officials. The Police, he said, will work with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate electoral offences and ensure that suspects face prosecution.
Since assuming office in February 2026, the Police have made significant strides in tackling insecurity. IGP Disu disclosed that the Force has arrested 251 terrorists and suspected bandits, 343 murder suspects, 566 armed robbery suspects, and 483 suspected cultists. They have also rescued 1,066 kidnap victims and recovered 947 firearms and more than 22,000 rounds of ammunition. These efforts, he said, demonstrate the Police's commitment to maintaining law and order.
The conference, attended by senior police officers, aimed to equip them with the necessary skills and strategies to manage election security effectively. IGP Disu's directives are expected to guide the Police's preparations for the 2027 elections. The Police boss emphasized that the Force will not relent in tackling kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, and communal violence as preparations for the elections continue.
IGP Disu's charge to police officers comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. The Police will play a critical role in ensuring the success of the electoral process. By prioritizing professionalism, intelligence, and accountability, the Police aim to build public trust and confidence in the electoral process. This, in turn, will contribute to a peaceful and credible election.
The Police's preparations for the 2027 elections will involve collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. IGP Disu's leadership and strategic direction are expected to guide the Police's efforts in ensuring a secure and successful electoral process. The outcome of the 2027 elections will depend, in part, on the effectiveness of the Police's security measures.
Key points
- IGP Olatunji Disu charges police officers to prepare for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
- The Police will work with INEC, EFCC, and ICPC to investigate electoral offences and ensure prosecution.
- The Police have made significant arrests and rescued kidnap victims since IGP Disu assumed office in February 2026.
