Police threaten to arrest, prosecute persons destroying campaign posters, billboards

The police have warned politicians and their supporters against the destruction of campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to rival candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The police said on Wednesday that it had observed growing incidents of deliberate tearing, defacement and destruction of campaign materials across the country. The perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted, the police said.

In a statement issued on 4 November, police spokesperson Ani Iniedu said the practice constituted political intolerance. He urged those involved to desist immediately.

The police said the destruction, defacement or unlawful removal of another candidate’s campaign materials could constitute malicious damage, a criminal offence under applicable laws, including Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law.

“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 statement read.

The police reiterated that all political parties and candidates, regardless of their affiliations or status, were entitled to equal protection under the law.

They added that no individual or group had the right to determine whose campaign materials should be displayed or destroyed.

According to the statement, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, directed commissioners of police in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive measures to prevent such incidents, investigate reported cases, and ensure suspects are arrested and prosecuted.

The police also warned that political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate the destruction of campaign materials would be held accountable where evidence established their involvement.

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The police urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect others’ rights. They also warned that political intolerance, intimidation and criminal conduct must not undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.

“The Nigeria Police Force will not allow political thugs and troublemakers to turn the nation’s political environment into a theatre of lawlessness,” the statement said. “Those who choose to break the law will face the full consequences of their actions.”

PREMIUM TIMES reports that campaigns have started across the country, in preparation for the early 2027 general elections.