IGP Disu Issues Warning to Politicians: Police to Prosecute Those Who Arm Youths, Intimidate Voters

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to political actors against recruiting young Nigerians for violence, warning that the police will arrest and prosecute anyone who crosses the boundaries of lawful political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Disu gave the warning while speaking at the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue organised by the Nigeria Police Force to commemorate the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja. The engagement focused on the role of young Nigerians in promoting peace, security and responsible democratic participation.

The police chief specifically cautioned politicians against arming youths, financing violent activities or deliberately inciting young people against their opponents. He stressed that political ambitions should not be pursued by turning young Nigerians into instruments of violence or criminality.

According to Disu, the Nigeria Police Force recognises citizens’ constitutional right to participate in political activities, support political parties, express opinions and campaign for candidates of their choice. However, he said such activities must remain peaceful and within the law.

He warned that the police would not protect violence disguised as political participation. The IGP listed the recruitment or mobilisation of youths for political violence, possession or use of weapons for electoral purposes, attacks on political opponents, voter intimidation and destruction of property among acts that would attract police intervention and prosecution.

Disu also appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to become political foot soldiers. He urged them to reject weapons, violence, misinformation, hate speech and digital intimidation, arguing that the consequences of electoral violence often remain with the youths and their families long after politicians have settled their differences.

The IGP further drew attention to what he described as a growing form of “digital thuggery”. He warned that misinformation, disinformation, cyberbullying, impersonation, deepfakes and coordinated online attacks could inflame communities, damage reputations and contribute to real-world violence.

He therefore encouraged young Nigerians to verify information before sharing it and to exercise restraint when engaging in political debates online. According to him, influence on social media carries responsibilities, particularly as the country moves closer to another major electoral cycle.

The police warning comes amid heightened preparations for elections and continuing concerns over political violence, voter intimidation and the use of armed groups during electoral contests. Ahead of the August 15 Osun governorship election, Disu had similarly warned that ballot snatching, voter intimidation, political thuggery and other electoral offences would attract arrest and prosecution.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, Disu’s latest position signals a tougher policing approach to electoral security, placing responsibility not only on youths but also on politicians who may seek to recruit or finance them for unlawful activities. The IGP’s message is that political competition must remain within the law and that individuals who cross the line into violence, intimidation or criminality should expect to face the consequences.