The Lagos State Police Command has requested that political parties provide notice of upcoming rallies, campaigns, processions, and other gatherings as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify. This move aims to enable the police to make necessary security arrangements and deploy personnel to cover these events. The request was made by Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, in a statement released on Sunday.
According to Mr. Fatai, the police command is committed to providing security for all political parties, candidates, and their supporters without bias. However, he emphasized that activities that could disrupt public peace will not be tolerated. Political parties that fail to notify the police or disregard security arrangements, resulting in a breach of peace, will be held accountable under the law.
The police's appeal is based on their statutory responsibility to provide security for political activities. Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2022 mandates the police to provide adequate security for the peaceful conduct of rallies and processions. This section also protects the right of registered political parties, aspirants, and candidates to hold lawful rallies.
Mr. Fatai referenced a security meeting held on October 15, where political parties and other stakeholders were urged to cooperate with security agencies and comply with security guidelines. The meeting was a proactive step to ensure that political activities in the state are conducted peacefully.
The Lagos police command clarified that the notice required from political parties is not a request for permission to conduct political activities. According to subsisting court judgments, police permits are not required to hold such political activities or organize protests. The position of the law protects the right of political parties to hold rallies and campaigns.
The police command's request for notification from political parties is a measure to ensure that security arrangements are in place to prevent potential breaches of peace. By cooperating with the police, political parties can contribute to the peaceful conduct of political activities across the state. This cooperation is essential in maintaining public safety and preventing disruptions.
The Lagos police command's proactive approach to securing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections demonstrates their commitment to upholding the law and maintaining public peace. By working together with political parties and other stakeholders, the police aim to create a secure environment for all to participate in the electoral process.
Key points
- The Lagos police require notification from political parties for rallies and campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The police will provide security for all political parties, candidates, and supporters without discrimination.
- Failure to notify the police or disregarding security arrangements may result in parties being held accountable under the law.
