Nasarawa Police Issue Stern Warning to Politicians Ahead of 2027 Governorship Race
As the 2027 governorship race in Nasarawa State begins to intensify, the Nigerian Police Force, Nasarawa State Command, has issued a strong warning to politicians and their supporters. The police have threatened to apprehend and prosecute any individuals who deliberately disturb the peace of residents while engaging in political activities across the state's 14 local government areas.
Police Commissioner's Directives
Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro Mohammed delivered this warning on Tuesday at the command's headquarters in Lafia, the state capital. He spoke to journalists immediately after a meeting with heads and representatives of various security agencies operating within the state.
The commissioner specifically cautioned politicians against campaigns of calumny, hate speech, and the deliberate spread of falsehood aimed at discrediting opponents or inflaming public sentiments. According to Mohammed, all political activities must be conducted strictly within the legal framework established by Nigerian law.
Requirements for Political Activities
Mohammed admonished political parties and their supporters to obtain necessary approvals for rallies, comply with established guidelines, and respect the rights of others to assemble and campaign freely without intimidation or harassment. He emphasized that such actions are not only unethical but also pose serious threats to public peace and democratic stability.
"I address you today on behalf of all the security agencies operating within Nasarawa State to reaffirm our collective commitment to the maintenance of peace, law, and order as political activities intensify and the primary elections for the emergence of party flag bearers draw nearer," the commissioner stated.
Security Agencies' Stance on Violence
The police commissioner continued: "Elections and political engagements are the cornerstone of our democracy. However, they must be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law. It is in this regard that we consider it necessary to speak directly to all political actors, across party lines."
He strongly urged politicians to refrain from actions and utterances capable of inciting violence or disrupting public peace. "Political ambition must never outweigh the sanctity of human life or the stability of our communities," Mohammed emphasized.
Call for Responsible Leadership
The commissioner called on all political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their supporters. He cautioned against engaging in violent protests, unlawful rallies, thuggery, and any act that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
"The era of sponsoring violence—whether directly or indirectly—must come to an end," Mohammed declared. "Let me state clearly and unequivocally: security agencies in Nasarawa State will not tolerate any form of politically motivated violence. Any individual or group found instigating, sponsoring, or participating in such acts will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law, regardless of status, position, or political affiliation."
Appeal to Youth
The commissioner also called on youths across the state to resist any attempt by unscrupulous individuals to use them as instruments of violence. He noted that their future is far more valuable than any temporary gain that might come from participating in political violence.
"Choose peace, uphold the law, and serve as ambassadors of responsible civic engagement," he warned the youth of Nasarawa State.
The police command's warning comes as political activities are expected to increase in the lead-up to the 2027 governorship election, with various political parties beginning to position their candidates and mobilize supporters across the state.
