The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to take action against individuals involved in the destruction, defacement and unlawful removal of political campaign posters, banners and billboards. This move is ahead of the 2027 general elections. The directive was made public by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniede.
The Nigeria Police Force has expressed concern over the increasing incidents of deliberate destruction of campaign materials belonging to political parties and candidates across the country. The Police have condemned acts of political intolerance and warned political thugs, hoodlums and other mischief-makers involved in the destruction of campaign materials to desist from such activities or face the consequences.
According to the Police, the destruction, defacement or unlawful removal of another candidate’s campaign materials could constitute malicious damage, which is a criminal offence under applicable laws. The laws include Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law. The Police have emphasized that political differences or loyalty to a particular party do not confer on anyone the right to destroy another candidate’s property.
The Police have stressed that all political parties and candidates, irrespective of their affiliations or status, are entitled to equal protection under the law. No individual or group has the authority to determine whose campaign materials should be displayed or destroyed. The IGP has directed Commissioners of Police in the states and the FCT to take proactive measures to prevent such incidents.
The Police have warned that political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate the criminal acts will be held accountable whenever evidence establishes their involvement. The Police have urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others.
The Police have reiterated that the right to campaign and promote political interests must be exercised within the confines of the law. They have urged political stakeholders to discourage violence and other acts capable of threatening public peace. The Force has assured Nigerians of its commitment to maintaining law and order throughout the political season.
The protection of all candidates and political parties remains a priority as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. The Police have called on Nigerians to respect the law and uphold the principles of peaceful political participation, particularly as political activities gather momentum.
Key points
- The IGP has directed Commissioners of Police to arrest and prosecute persons involved in the destruction of political campaign materials.
- The destruction of campaign materials is a criminal offence under applicable laws.
- The Police have urged political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others.
