The Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians, political supporters and their sponsors against tearing down, defacing or destroying campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to other candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Force said it had observed increasing incidents of damage to political campaign materials across the country, describing the acts as signs of political intolerance that could undermine the democratic process.
In a statement issued on November 4, 2026, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the destruction or unlawful removal of another candidate’s campaign materials could constitute malicious damage, a criminal offence under applicable laws.
The police cited Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law, which provides for the offence of mischief.
The Force stressed that political differences or loyalty to a particular party did not give individuals the right to destroy another candidate’s property or prevent them from campaigning freely.
It also maintained that all political parties and candidates were entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of their political affiliation or status.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive steps to prevent such incidents, investigate reported cases and arrest and prosecute those found responsible.
The directive also covers political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate the destruction of campaign materials, where evidence establishes their involvement.
The police urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others.
The Force warned that it would not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the political environment into a scene of lawlessness, adding that anyone found violating the law would face prosecution.
Comments
Add a comment