The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has warned politicians and their supporters against hiring thugs, buying votes or threatening voters and electoral officials during the 2027 general elections.
Disu gave the warning on Monday at the sixth conference and retreat for senior police officers in Owerri, Imo State.
He said the police would not tolerate electoral offences and would work with relevant agencies to investigate and prosecute those involved, regardless of their political status.
“To politicians and their supporters, my message is simple. Compete with ideas, not with thugs,” Disu said.
“Do not hire mobs, buy votes, move arms or threaten voters and electoral officials. The police will act against anyone who does that, whatever their status.
“Arrest is not enough; we will work with INEC, EFCC, and ICPC to investigate vote buying and inducement. We will also work with prosecutors so that those arrested will face trial, not just headlines.
“Impunity is the greatest encouragement of electoral crimes. To the people of Nigeria, go out, vote peacefully and report wrongdoing,” he said.
He added that anyone arrested for electoral crimes would face prosecution, irrespective of their position or status.
The event was attended by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, representatives of other security agencies and other government officials.
Disu also introduced a six-point framework to guide police preparations for the 2027 elections.
The framework covers stronger intelligence and early-warning systems, improved training and preparedness, joint command and cooperation among security agencies, better communication and use of technology, stronger community engagement, and strict neutrality.
