The Nigeria Police Force has warned political actors and their supporters against the destruction of campaign posters, banners and billboards, promising to arrest and prosecute offenders as the country moves toward the 2027 General Elections.
In a statement, the Force said it had observed with serious concern a growing number of incidents in which campaign materials belonging to candidates and political parties were deliberately torn, defaced or destroyed in various parts of the country.
The police condemned the acts as political intolerance and urged political thugs, hoodlums and other troublemakers to stop immediately.
The Force explained that destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing another candidate’s campaign materials may amount to malicious damage, an offence under Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and the mischief provisions of Section 326 of the Penal Code Law. It stressed that political differences or party loyalty do not give anyone the right to destroy the property of another candidate or to interfere with their right to campaign freely.
The police added that all political parties and candidates, regardless of affiliation or status, are entitled to equal protection under the law, and that no person or group has the right to decide whose campaign materials should be displayed or removed.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive steps to prevent such acts, investigate reported cases and ensure that those found responsible are arrested and prosecuted in line with the law.
The Force also warned that political sponsors and any individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate such acts would be held accountable where evidence establishes their involvement.
The police urged political parties, candidates and supporters to campaign peacefully and respect the rights of others, cautioning that the democratic process must not be undermined by intolerance, intimidation or criminal conduct.
“The Nigeria Police Force will not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the nation’s political environment into a theatre of lawlessness,” the statement said, adding that those who break the law would face the full consequences.
The Force concluded with a call on all stakeholders to respect the law and allow democracy to thrive.
