As preparations for the 2027 general elections hot up, the Nigeria Police Force, on Wednesday, warned politicians, political thugs and their supporters against destroying campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to rival candidates across the country.
This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.
The statement warned that offenders would henceforth be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the land.
It said the Force had observed with concern the increasing incidents of deliberate tearing, defacement and destruction of campaign materials belonging to candidates and political parties across the country.
According to the statement, the Force considers such acts a form of political intolerance and urged those involved to stop immediately.
“The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns this act of political intolerance and warns political thugs, hoodlums and other mischief-makers involved to desist immediately.”
The statement further noted that the destruction or unlawful removal of another candidate’s campaign materials could constitute malicious damage, a criminal offence under applicable laws.
It cited Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law, which provide for the offence of mischief.
“Political differences or loyalty to a particular party do not give anyone the right to destroy another candidate’s property or infringe on their right to campaign freely,” it added.
The statement reiterated that all political parties and candidates, regardless of their affiliations or status, were entitled to equal protection under the law.
It further explained that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, had directed commissioners of police in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take preventive measures, investigate reported incidents and ensure that those found culpable were arrested and prosecuted.
The police also warned that political sponsors and individuals who recruited, encouraged or facilitated the destruction of campaign materials would be held accountable if evidence established their involvement.
According to the statement, “the Nigeria Police Force will not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the nation’s political environment into a theatre of lawlessness. Those who choose to break the law will face the full consequences of their actions.”
The statement further urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others, warning that political intolerance and intimidation must not undermine the democratic process.
There have been reports of the reckless destruction and defacement of campaign posters and billboards in some states ahead of the 2027 general elections.