2027: Police warn Nasarawa politicians against hate speech, violence

In what has become a trending story, the Nasarawa State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has cautioned politicians against campaigns of calumny, hate speech, and the deliberate spread of falsehood, warning that anyone who disturbs public peace in the course of political activities will be arrested and prosecuted.

The state Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, gave the warning on Tuesday at the command’s headquarters in Lafia while speaking with journalists after a meeting with heads and representatives of security agencies in the state.

He disclosed all political activities must be conducted strictly within the ambit of the law, and advised political parties and their supporters to obtain necessary approvals for rallies, comply with established guidelines, and respect the rights of others to assemble and campaign freely without intimidation or harassment.

“Elections and political engagements are the cornerstone of our democracy. that said, they must be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law. It is in this regard that we consider it necessary to speak directly to all political actors, across party lines,” he remarked.

The CP warned that political ambition must never outweigh the sanctity of human life or the stability of communities.

“We strongly urge politicians to refrain from actions and utterances capable of inciting violence or disrupting public peace. We call on all political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their supporters. They must be cautioned against engaging in violent protests, unlawful rallies, thuggery, and any act that could lead to a breakdown of law and order. The era of sponsoring violence — whether directly or indirectly — must come to an end,” he pointed out.

Mohammed made clear that the security agencies would not tolerate any form of politically motivated violence.

“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: security agencies in Nasarawa State will not tolerate any form of politically motivated violence. Any individual or group found instigating, sponsoring, or participating in such acts will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law, regardless of status, position, or political affiliation,” he disclosed.

The CP also appealed to youths to resist attempts by unscrupulous individuals to use them as instruments of violence, saying their future was far more valuable than any temporary gain.

“Choose peace, uphold the law, and serve as ambassadors of responsible civic engagement,” he told the youths.

He emphasised that security agencies in the state remain united, vigilant, and fully prepared to ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents, and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to providing a level playing ground for all political parties throughout the electioneering season.

“Peace is a collective responsibility. We must all work together — politicians, supporters, community leaders, and security agencies — to sustain harmony and stability in Nasarawa State. We therefore call on all political actors to lead by example, promote peaceful coexistence, and place the interest of the state above personal or partisan considerations,” he added.

Nigeria’s political space typically heats up significantly in the years preceding general elections, with primaries, defections, and inter-party rivalries often accompanied by rising political tension at the grassroots level. Security agencies across the country have, in recent months, issued similar warnings to political actors as parties begin to position for the 2027 governorship, legislative, and presidential elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has also been engaging stakeholders on the electoral timetable for 2027, while the police and other security agencies have stepped up early warning and monitoring activities in politically sensitive states across the country.