The Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against hate speech, fake news, thuggery and other acts capable of triggering violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Bakori gave the warning at a strategic engagement with political party leaders and contestants held at the Police Officers’ Mess, Bompai, Kano, on Thursday.
He said the meeting was convened to ensure that political activities leading to the elections were conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.
The commissioner noted that Kano’s large population and political influence made responsible political conduct imperative, warning that poorly managed campaigns could result in violence, intimidation and destruction of property.
He charged political parties and contestants to shun hate speech, fake news and incitement both online and offline, while rejecting violence and thuggery in all forms.
Bakori also urged them to comply with the Electoral Act 2022 and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), including obtaining necessary permits for rallies and other political gatherings.
He further called on party leaders to control their supporters and take responsibility for their conduct during political activities.
A representative of INEC at the meeting explained relevant electoral guidelines, while representatives of 13 political parties present pledged their support for the police command’s peace initiative.
The commissioner 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 said the police would also intensify intelligence gathering and proactive policing ahead of the elections.
Bakori disclosed that the command would establish an Election Security Situation Room and Complaint Response Desk to monitor developments and respond promptly to security and electoral-related complaints.
He warned that anyone found violating public peace or committing electoral offences would be arrested and prosecuted, irrespective of their political status.
The commissioner urged political leaders and contestants to make peace the priority of their campaigns, calling on them to embrace the slogan: “Peace First. Kano First. Nigeria First.”
He expressed confidence that with the cooperation of political actors and other stakeholders, Kano could set an example for peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
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