The police commissioner in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, Ahmed Sanusi, has warned residents against violence and other electoral offences ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mr Sanusi gave the warning in Abuja at an engagement with some members of the Lugbe Community in the FCT as part of activities lined up for the 2026 National Police Day.
He urged the youth to resist any attempt to induce them in a manner that would endanger their lives or result in the destruction of lives and property.
The police commissioner cautioned the political class against inducements that could result in the destruction of property, adding that no political ambition was worth risking lives or destroying property.
“You must not allow people to induce you or use you in a manner that is unbecoming, that can endanger your lives or lead to the destruction of life and property.
“Whatever opposition, whatever political affiliation you may wish to belong to, it is your choice and your constitutional right. As citizens, you must exercise that political rights peacefully without putting your lives at risk or resorting to breakdown of law and order,” Mr Sanusi said.
Mr Sanusi urged the youth to shun any attempt to be used by politicians to disrupt elections, snatch ballot boxes, attack supporters of opposing parties, destroy electoral materials or other acts that could undermine the electoral process.
“Do not allow yourselves or your children to follow the political gladiators that might want to induce you to engage in some act of electoral violence.
“Don’t indulge in snatching of ballot boxes, attacking other political party supporters because they are not with you. Destroying electoral materials, as well as blocking roads to hinder electoral officers, are offences that must not be tolerated,” the police chief warned.
Mr Sanusi said the police would partner with the Independent National Electoral Commission, the community and other stakeholders to ensure that elections in the FCT are peaceful and credible.
He said the command would sustain the community engagements ahead of the 2027 elections to strengthen public trust in the police and reduce electoral violence.
(NAN)