Police warn against vote-buying, political thuggery in Katsina

From Agaju Madugba, Katsina

The Katsina State Police Command has assured political parties, candidates, and residents of the state of its readiness to provide adequate security and ensure peaceful, orderly and hitch-free campaign period ahead of the forthcoming general elections in 2027.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, the Command said it was working closely with other security agencies to maintain law and order throughout the electioneering process.

The Command emphasised that while every citizen has the constitutional right to participate in political activities and campaigns, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law.

It warned that acts of political thuggery, hate speech, incitement, destruction of campaign materials, unlawful assemblies, illegal possession of weapons, vote-buying and any other conduct capable of disrupting public peace will not be tolerated.

According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police has directed that anyone found violating the provisions of the Electoral Act or other extant laws be dealt with decisively, irrespective of social status, political affiliation or influence.

The Command further called on parents, guardians, political candidates and stakeholders to caution their children, wards, supporters and party members against engaging in unlawful activities that could undermine the peaceful conduct of the elections.

Candidates and political parties were also advised to adhere strictly to campaign guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and to promote issue-based campaigns devoid of violence, intimidation or inflammatory rhetoric.

Members of the public are encouraged to remain law-abiding, vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.

The statement reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining public order, and ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates throughout the campaign period and the electoral process.