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The Lagos State Police Command and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have warned political thugs against electoral violence, voter intimidation, and other activities capable of disrupting the 2027 general elections.
The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, gave the warning on Friday at the 2027 General Election Stakeholders’ Security Engagement in Lagos, vowing that anyone found culpable would be arrested and prosecuted, irrespective of political affiliation.
Tijani said the Command would not tolerate attacks on political opponents, disruption of rallies, destruction of campaign posters or any conduct capable of threatening public peace.
He stressed that the police had a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property and ensure that eligible voters exercised their civic rights without intimidation.
The CP disclosed that the Command had conducted crime mapping to identify areas vulnerable to electoral violence, adding that security operatives would intensify surveillance and strengthen operational arrangements to prevent breaches.
He urged political parties to notify the police ahead of rallies and other political activities to facilitate adequate security deployment and crowd management.
Tijani also cautioned political actors and social media users against hate speech, fake news, and online incitement, urging media organisations to verify information before publication.
He assured political parties, candidates, and residents of adequate security for campaigns, rallies, electoral materials, officials and polling units.
“Election monitoring and the security of the electoral process are shared responsibilities. It is not meant for the police or other security agencies alone,” he said.
Also speaking, Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. Abayomi Salami, urged political parties and stakeholders to cooperate with INEC and security agencies to maintain peace before, during and after the elections.
He called on political actors to sustain Lagos’ peaceful atmosphere and support efforts towards a credible electoral process.
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