The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called on journalists to practise responsible reporting and deepen collaboration with the Police to curb misinformation and help deliver peaceful, credible elections in 2027.
He appealed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the 3rd Annual Conference and Awards of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN). The event was themed “Navigating Security Challenges in the 2027 Election: The Role of the Media in Combating Fake News.”
The IGP said election preparedness goes beyond operational readiness and must include credible public communication. He warned that fabricated reports, recycled videos and unverified claims could trigger panic, discourage voters and erode confidence in the electoral process.
He urged journalists to verify sensitive material and to distinguish established facts from allegations before publication.
Outlining the Force’s response to deliberate misinformation and incitement, the IGP said the Police monitor online platforms through the National Cybercrime Centre. He added that cybercrime capacity has been expanded within Criminal Investigation Departments nationwide, alongside digital forensic investigations and prompt, evidence-based public communication.
He stressed that these measures are meant to protect public safety and not to suppress legitimate criticism or honest journalism.
Describing crime correspondents as partners in public safety and accountability, the IGP called for accurate and fair reporting of both the Force’s achievements and its shortcomings. He noted that independent scrutiny strengthens accountability, and that a free, responsible press is essential to credible elections.
In his remarks, the CCAN Chairman, Festus Ejiroghene Fifen, advocated closer pre-election collaboration between the Police and the media, including involving journalists in scenario-building and election-security simulations.
Fifen also called for conflict-sensitive reporting, improved welfare for journalists, and specialised training in fact-checking, digital forensics and crisis reporting. He commended the IGP for his support for the Association.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, said in a statement that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to election readiness, transparent communication and constructive media engagement in safeguarding the electoral process and the safety of all Nigerians.
