The Bauchi State Police Command has warned political parties against thuggery, hate speech and political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging them to focus on issue-based campaigns and respect the law.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, gave the warning during a meeting with political party leaders at the Police Headquarters in Bauchi on Thursday.
Aliyu, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Abdulmajid Isah, assured the parties of adequate and impartial security during the electioneering period.
“Politics is a contest of ideas. Bauchi State is bigger than any election, and we must all work to keep the peace,” the commissioner was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, on October 15, 2026.
He urged political parties to campaign on the strength of their policies and manifestos rather than resort to personal attacks or abusive language against opponents, INEC officials, traditional institutions and security agencies.
The police commissioner also warned against blocking roads, disrupting rival parties’ rallies and violating approved campaign venues, time limits and sound restrictions.
The command cautioned political parties against bringing firearms, dangerous weapons or illicit drugs to political gatherings, as well as mobilising thugs, Sara-Suka groups and vigilantes to intimidate opponents.
On online campaigns, Aliyu said the command’s Cybercrime Unit would monitor activities in cyberspace. He warned that political parties would be held responsible for the conduct of their agents, supporters and media handlers.
He also highlighted relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and the Cybercrimes Act covering offences such as political violence, destruction of campaign materials, hate speech, incitement, cyberbullying, stalking and the deliberate spread of false information.
In their responses, the political party leaders called on the police to ensure equal treatment for all parties. They also urged the command to address the excessive placement of campaign posters, banners and billboards in public spaces.
The party leaders expressed particular concern that campaign materials obstructing traffic at roundabouts and road junctions could cause accidents.
The commissioner assured the party leaders of the command’s commitment to maintaining a level playing field and urged each party to appoint a Peace and Compliance Officer to liaise with Divisional Police Officers and Area Commanders.
He also encouraged the parties to prepare for the signing of the Bauchi State Peace Accord before the commencement of full campaigns.
Bauchi police warn political parties against thuggery, hate speech ahead of 2027 elections