Police warn against campaign poster destruction ahead of 2027 elections

Police issue nationwide warning

On 4 November 2026, the Nigeria Police Force announced a directive to all 36 state police commissioners and the Federal Capital Territory commissioner. The directive requires authorities to act preemptively to stop the vandalism, alteration, or illegal takedown of promotional materials, including posters, banners, and billboards, associated with opposing contenders. The directive was issued amid a rise in incidents of deliberate tearing and defacement of political materials across the country.

The Inspector‑General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, delivered the warning in Abuja. The force’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, stated that such acts constitute political intolerance and that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted. Law enforcement officials noted that ruining the campaign assets of a competing candidate could be classified as malicious property damage, which is a crime defined within the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code Law.

Background

The warning comes as the 2027 general elections approach. The Nigeria Police Force has been monitoring a growing trend of campaign material vandalism, which it says undermines peaceful political participation. Previous statements from the force have emphasised the need for political tolerance and the protection of candidates’ rights. The directive aligns with broader security reforms being promoted by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which include proposals to shift police management from federal to state control.

Why it matters

The directive applies to all political parties and candidates, regardless of affiliation. By declaring the destruction of campaign materials a criminal offence, the police aim to deter political thugs, supporters and other individuals from engaging in vandalism. According to the police, holding differing political views or allegiance to a specific party does not give anyone the permission to harm the possessions of another contender or obstruct their ability to engage in free campaigning. The warning is intended to preserve a peaceful atmosphere and ensure that all candidates can exercise their democratic rights without intimidation.

What happens next

The police have instructed state and federal commissioners to investigate reported cases and to take action against offenders. No specific dates or further procedural details were announced. The agency emphasized that every political entity and candidate receives uniform legal safeguarding, clarifying that neither private citizens nor organized groups possess the power to determine which promotional items are permitted to remain up or must be taken down.