The Nigeria Police Force has ordered its officers to remain neutral, prepared, present and accountable as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
The presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for 16 January 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections will follow on 6 February.
Speaking at a security retreat in Owerri, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu said election security would depend heavily on effective planning, intelligence and cooperation among security agencies.
He said the police would not allow kidnapping, terrorism, banditry or communal violence to disrupt preparations for the polls.
The IGP said police operations since he assumed office in February 2026 had led to the arrest of 251 suspected terrorists and bandits, 343 murder suspects, 566 suspected armed robbers and 483 suspected cultists.
He added that officers had rescued 1,066 kidnapped victims and recovered 947 firearms and more than 22,000 rounds of ammunition.
However, he warned that the figures would not reduce the need for stronger action against crime.
He directed police commanders to strengthen intelligence networks, identify potential flashpoints and train officers in crowd management, rapid response and human-rights-compliant policing.
The police will also work with the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to tackle electoral offences.
The IGP warned politicians and their supporters against vote-buying, intimidation, the use of thugs and the movement of weapons.
He also directed commissioners of police to publish official contact numbers so citizens can report security concerns.
According to the police chief, officers must protect voters, electoral officials and election materials while maintaining political neutrality.
He also warned officers against abusing their powers or taking sides during the 2027 general elections.
The police leadership expects the security retreat to produce a practical election-security roadmap covering preparations before, during and after the polls.
The message was clear: officers must act early, communicate quickly and remain accountable throughout the electoral process.
The IGP urged officers to return to their commands with four principles: Neutral. Prepared. Present. Accountable.
