The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, has issued a warning to political parties, candidates, and their supporters against engaging in violence, thuggery, and mobilizing cult groups and criminal elements for political purposes during elections. This warning was given at a workshop on "Elections Security, the Law, Stakeholders & the Media" held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The workshop, a collaboration with the Development Communication Research Centre, brought together various stakeholders including representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, and the media.
Commissioner Ojajuni emphasized that election security is a collective responsibility, requiring the cooperation of political actors, electoral officials, the media, and citizens to ensure peaceful elections. He stressed that political competition is essential to democracy but must be conducted within the boundaries of the law. The police commissioner urged political parties and their supporters to reject violence, intimidation, and attacks on electoral personnel or facilities, noting that no political ambition is worth the life of another Nigerian.
The police commissioner also warned against the recruitment of cultists and criminals to further political interests, stating that election-related disputes should be addressed through lawful channels. He assured residents that the police would remain professional, impartial, and non-partisan in their responsibilities during elections. The command will work with other relevant agencies to identify threats, prevent violence, and respond to security incidents.
Effective election security, according to Ojajuni, also depends on proper coordination and information sharing among security and election management agencies. The workshop aimed to enable stakeholders to understand their respective mandates and identify areas requiring stronger cooperation ahead of the elections. This includes understanding the operational expectations of other stakeholders and the legal boundaries governing their activities.
Commissioner Ojajuni urged journalists and media organizations to exercise caution in reporting security incidents and alleged electoral malpractice, particularly in the era of social media. He warned that false reports published quickly could have severe consequences beyond the newsroom. Accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting, he noted, could help reduce tension and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
The Ogun State Police Command, under Ojajuni's leadership, assured that it would remain proactive in identifying threats, responsive to incidents, and firm against criminality while respecting citizens' fundamental rights. The command will not allow criminal elements to exploit the electoral process to cause violence or undermine public safety. All stakeholders were urged to recognize the rule of law as the common denominator in the electoral process.
In his closing remarks, Commissioner Ojajuni expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for his leadership and support. He also thanked the Development Communication Research Centre and other participating institutions for their partnership. The workshop, he expressed confidence in, would strengthen stakeholders' preparedness and contribute to safer and more peaceful elections in Ogun State.
Key points
- The Ogun State Commissioner of Police warns politicians against violence and recruiting cultists ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Election security is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation from all stakeholders.
- The police will work with relevant agencies to ensure a peaceful and secure electoral process.
