The Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians, party supporters and other individuals against the destruction, defacement or removal of campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to rival candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The police expressed concern over increasing incidents of deliberate destruction of campaign materials across the country, describing the practice as an act of political intolerance capable of undermining the democratic process.
The Force noted that destroying or unlawfully removing campaign materials belonging to other candidates could amount to malicious damage, a criminal offence punishable under applicable laws, including Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law.
It stressed that political affiliation or loyalty to any party does not give individuals the right to destroy another candidate's property or prevent them from exercising their right to campaign.
The police further emphasised that all political parties and candidates are entitled to equal protection under the law, warning that no individual or group has the authority to dictate whose campaign materials should be displayed or removed.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to intensify preventive measures, investigate reported cases and arrest anyone found responsible for such offences.
The Force added that political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or provide support for the destruction of campaign materials would also face prosecution if investigations establish their involvement.
It urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully, respect the rights of other contestants and refrain from acts capable of causing tension or disrupting public order.
The police warned that individuals who engage in political violence, intimidation or other unlawful activities would be made to face the full weight of the law.
