The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has issued a strong warning to political thugs, hoodlums and other troublemakers ahead of the 2027 general elections, directing police commissioners nationwide to arrest and prosecute anyone caught destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing political campaign posters, banners and billboards.

The directive comes amid growing concerns over political intolerance and reported incidents of deliberate destruction of campaign materials belonging to different political parties and candidates across the country.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniede, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

Police Condemn Destruction of Campaign Materials

According to the police spokesperson, the Nigeria Police Force has observed with serious concern the increasing incidents of deliberate destruction and unlawful removal of political campaign materials.

The Force condemned such actions, describing them as acts of political intolerance capable of undermining peaceful political participation and the country's democratic process.

It consequently warned political thugs, hoodlums and other individuals involved in such activities to desist immediately or face the full consequences of the law.

Destruction of Campaign Posters Is a Criminal Offence

The police explained that destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing campaign materials belonging to another candidate or political party could constitute malicious damage, which is a criminal offence under applicable Nigerian laws.

The statement referenced Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law, which provide for offences relating to malicious damage and mischief.

The IGP stressed that political differences, party loyalty or personal disagreements do not give anyone the right to destroy another person's property or deny candidates their freedom to campaign.

Political Sponsors Will Also Face Prosecution

In a significant warning, the Inspector-General of Police extended the directive beyond individuals caught carrying out the destruction.

According to the statement, political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage, finance or facilitate such criminal activities will also be held accountable where evidence establishes their involvement.

This signals the police leadership's intention to investigate not only those directly involved in destroying campaign materials but also individuals allegedly financing or encouraging such acts.

IGP Directs Commissioners of Police to Enforce Compliance

The IGP has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive measures to prevent further incidents.

The directives include:

• Preventing the destruction and unlawful removal of political campaign materials.
• Investigating reported cases of campaign material destruction.
• Arresting individuals found culpable.
• Ensuring the prosecution of offenders.
• Holding political sponsors accountable where their involvement is established.

The police further emphasised that all political parties and candidates, regardless of their political affiliations or status, are entitled to equal protection under the law.

Police Warn Against Turning 2027 Elections Into an Era of Violence

The Force urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully while respecting the rights and property of others.

It warned that political intolerance, intimidation and criminal activities must not be allowed to undermine Nigeria's democratic process.

The police leadership maintained that it would not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the nation's political environment into a theatre of lawlessness.

Nigerians were therefore urged to respect the law, embrace political tolerance and allow democracy to thrive as preparations gradually build towards the 2027 general elections.

The message from the Nigeria Police Force is clear: political loyalty is not a licence to commit crimes, and anyone found violating the law will be made to face the consequences.