Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu has ordered Police Commissioners across all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory to investigate the destruction of campaign materials and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
He said political sponsors will also be held accountable where evidence links them to the attacks.
In a statement this Wednesday, Force spokesperson, a Chief Superintendent of Police, Ani Iniedu, said the directive follows a rise in reports of campaign posters, banners and billboards being deliberately torn down, defaced or destroyed across the country, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Disu condemned the attacks as acts of political intolerance and warned those involved to stop immediately.
He directed CPs to prevent further attacks and investigate complaints.
The warning also extends to anyone who recruits, encourages or helps those carrying out the attacks, where evidence establishes their involvement.
The Force noted that destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing another candidate’s campaign materials may amount to a criminal offence. It cites Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act on malicious damage and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law on mischief.
The IGP stated that every political Party and candidate is entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of affiliation or status. He said political differences and party loyalty give no one the right to destroy a rival’s property, decide whose posters can go up or interfere with anyone’s right to campaign freely.
Disu urged parties, candidates and supporters to campaign peacefully and respect the rights of others. He warned that Police will act against anyone who uses intimidation or criminal conduct to disrupt the democratic process.
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(Editor: Ken Eseni)
