The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned politicians, political thugs and other individuals against destroying campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to rival candidates and political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The police warned that anyone found engaging in such acts would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The warning follows increasing reports of campaign materials being vandalised in different parts of the country, amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, described the destruction of campaign materials as an act of political intolerance that threatens democratic values.
The police explained that unlawfully tearing down or defacing campaign posters and billboards could amount to malicious damage, which is punishable under the country’s criminal laws.
The Force stressed that political loyalty or differences did not give anyone the right to destroy another candidate’s property or prevent political opponents from freely reaching out to voters.
Consequently, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to intensify efforts to prevent further incidents.
He also ordered the investigation of reported cases and the arrest and prosecution of individuals found responsible, including those who sponsor or encourage the destruction of campaign materials.
Meanwhile, security operatives in Calabar, Cross River State, have averted a possible violent confrontation between supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, and the All Progressives Congress, APC.
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The incident occurred when supporters of the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, gathered at a hotel along Murtala Mohammed Highway for a political meeting, while APC supporters were also holding a rally and road walk in the same area.
The situation reportedly became tense when both groups converged in front of the hotel, with hundreds of NDC supporters blocking the highway in an apparent attempt to prevent the APC supporters from accessing the area.
However, security operatives intervened, separated the two groups and redirected the APC supporters to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.
Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the command’s timely intervention and engagement with the groups helped prevent a confrontation.
The police subsequently urged political parties and their supporters to exercise restraint, respect one another’s rights and ensure that political activities are conducted peacefully.
