The Nasarawa State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians against engaging in hate speech, spreading false information, and actions capable of disrupting public peace, stressing that offenders will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, issued the warning on Tuesday at the command headquarters in Lafia after a meeting with heads and representatives of security agencies in the state.
He said all political activities must be conducted within the confines of the law, urging parties and their supporters to obtain necessary approvals for rallies, adhere to guidelines, and respect the rights of others to campaign without intimidation.
“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 said.
The CP cautioned that political ambition must not override the safety of lives or community stability.
“We strongly urge politicians to refrain from actions and utterances capable of inciting violence or disrupting public peace. We call on all political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their supporters. They must be 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,” he said.
Mohammed stressed that security agencies would not tolerate politically motivated violence.
“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,” he said.
He also advised youths to avoid being used as tools for violence, urging them to embrace lawful and constructive civic participation.
“Choose peace, uphold the law, and serve as ambassadors of responsible civic engagement,” he told the youths.
The police boss reaffirmed that security agencies in the state remain united and prepared to ensure a peaceful environment, pledging a level playing field for all parties during the election period.
“Peace is a collective responsibility. We must all work together — politicians, supporters, community leaders, and security agencies — to sustain harmony and stability in Nasarawa State. We therefore call on all political actors to lead by example, promote peaceful coexistence, and place the interest of the state above personal or partisan considerations,” he added.
The warning comes as political activities begin to intensify nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections, with security agencies increasing monitoring and early response measures across states.
