BY: ABDULKADIR M LAWAN, NOVEMBER 04, 2026/ 05:30PM
The Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians, supporters and political thugs against the destruction of campaign posters and billboards ahead of the 2027 General Elections, vowing to arrest and prosecute offenders.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu Anipr, on Wednesday, the Force said it has observed with serious concern the growing incidents of deliberate tearing, defacement and destruction of political campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to candidates and political parties across the country.
The Force strongly condemned the act, describing it as political intolerance, and warned political thugs, hoodlums and other mischief-makers involved to desist immediately.
'For the avoidance of doubt, destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing another candidate's campaign posters and billboards may constitute malicious damage, which is a criminal offence under applicable criminal laws (Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Sections 326 of the Penal Code Law, which defines the offence of mischief),' the statement said.
'Political differences or loyalty to a particular party do not give anyone the right to destroy another candidate's property or infringe on their right to campaign freely.'
The police reiterated that all political parties and candidates, irrespective of their affiliation or status, are entitled to equal protection under the law. It added that no individual or group has the right to determine whose campaign materials should be displayed or destroyed.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed commissioners of police across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive measures to prevent such acts, investigate reported incidents and ensure that persons found culpable are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
'Political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate these criminal acts will equally be held accountable where evidence establishes their involvement, the statement added.
The Force called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others.
'Nigeria's democratic process must not be undermined by political intolerance, intimidation or criminal conduct.
'The Nigeria Police Force will not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the nation's political environment into a theatre of lawlessness. Those who choose to break the law will face the full consequences of their actions,' the statement added.