Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has vowed to arrest and prosecute political thugs, hoodlums, and other individuals involved in the destruction, defacement, and unlawful removal of campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to political parties and candidates.
The Force condemned the growing incidents of political intolerance, warning those responsible to desist from such acts or face the consequences of the law.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police described the destruction of campaign materials as a possible act of malicious damage, which constitutes a criminal offence under applicable laws.
The Force cited Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law, which defines the offence of mischief, noting that political differences or allegiance to a particular party do not give anyone the right to destroy another candidate’s property or prevent them from campaigning freely.
Consequently, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive steps to prevent such incidents, investigate reported cases, and ensure that those found culpable are arrested and prosecuted.
The police also warned that individuals and political sponsors who recruit, encourage or facilitate the destruction of campaign materials would be held accountable where evidence establishes their involvement.
The Force stressed that all political parties and candidates are entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of their political affiliation or status.
It urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and respect the rights of others, warning that it would not tolerate attempts by political thugs and troublemakers to undermine the democratic process through intimidation and criminal conduct.
