2027 polls: Police must remain neutral – IGP

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has pledged that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will remain firm, professional and politically neutral during the 2027 general elections. Speaking at his inaugural conference with strategic police managers in Abuja on Wednesday, Disu said the credibility of the 2027 polls and the stability of Nigeria’s democracy would largely […]

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has pledged that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will remain firm, professional and politically neutral during the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at his inaugural conference with strategic police managers in Abuja on Wednesday, Disu said the credibility of the 2027 polls and the stability of Nigeria’s democracy would largely depend on the conduct of the police as the lead agency in election security.

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, our responsibility to the nation becomes heightened and non-negotiable.

“The police must be firm in enforcing the law, impartial in decisions, professional in conduct and strictly neutral in all electoral engagements,” he said.

The IGP declared zero tolerance for partisanship, misconduct or abuse of authority, warning that officers who compromise neutrality or violate electoral laws would face swift disciplinary measures, including prosecution.

“There will be no exceptions and no excuses,” he said.

Disu said the police would secure the electoral process before, during and after the polls, safeguard democratic institutions, electoral officials, voters and critical infrastructure, and ensure citizens exercise their civic rights without fear.

He added that crowd control operations would be conducted with restraint and respect for human rights, noting that any use of force must be lawful, proportionate and accountable.

While promising coordination with the armed forces and other security agencies, he maintained that the police would retain clear leadership in election security operations.