The Kano State Police Command has warned political party leaders and contestants against hate speech, fake news, incitement, thuggery and other acts capable of undermining peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the spokesman for the Kano State Police Command, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, and issued to newsmen.
He said the state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, gave the warning on Thursday during a strategic engagement with political party leaders and contestants at the Police Officers’ Mess, Bompai, Kano.
Bakori said the meeting was convened to ensure that political activities leading to the 2027 elections were conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law, stressing that Kano’s large population and political influence made responsible political conduct imperative.
He warned that poorly managed political campaigns could result in violence, intimidation and destruction of property, urging political actors to place the peace and security of the state above their political interests.
The Commissioner of Police specifically charged political party leaders and contestants to shun hate speech, fake news and incitement, both online and offline, while rejecting violence and thuggery in all forms.
He also urged them to comply with the Electoral Act 2022 and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), including obtaining the necessary permits for rallies.
According to him, political leaders must call their supporters to order and take responsibility for their conduct throughout the electoral process.
A representative of INEC at the meeting also spoke on electoral guidelines, while representatives of 13 political parties in attendance delivered goodwill messages and pledged their support for the police command’s peace initiative.
Bakori assured political parties and contestants of a level playing field, saying the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, would provide adequate security for INEC facilities, candidates and campaign venues.
He added that the command would intensify intelligence gathering and proactive policing, as well as establish an Election Security Situation Room and Complaint Response Desk.
He further warned that anyone, irrespective of status, found violating public peace or committing electoral offences would be arrested and prosecuted.
Bakori urged political party leaders and contestants to preach the message of “Peace First, Kano First, Nigeria First,” saying all stakeholders must work together to make Kano a model of peaceful elections.
