The Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians, political supporters and suspected thugs against tearing, defacing or destroying campaign posters, banners and billboards ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Force described the acts as political intolerance and warned that anyone involved could face arrest and prosecution.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the police had observed growing incidents of deliberate destruction of campaign materials belonging to candidates and political parties across the country.
Destruction of Posters Is a Criminal Offence
The police said destroying, defacing or unlawfully removing another candidate’s campaign materials could amount to malicious damage, a criminal offence under applicable laws.
The statement cited Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law, which defines the offence of mischief.
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It stressed that political differences or loyalty to a particular party did not give anyone the right to destroy another candidate’s property or prevent them from campaigning freely.
The Force also maintained that all political parties and candidates were entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of their affiliations or status.
IGP Directs Commissioners to Act
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take proactive measures to prevent the incidents.
They were also instructed to investigate reported cases and ensure that those found culpable are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The police warned that political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate the destruction of campaign materials would also be held accountable where evidence establishes their involvement.
The Force urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns and respect the rights of others.
It warned that political thugs and troublemakers would not be allowed to turn the country’s political environment into what it described as a theatre of lawlessness.
