By Emmanuel Onyedika
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Olatunji Disu, has warned Nigerian youths against being used for political violence, misinformation, and digital intimidation as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Disu gave the caution in Abuja during the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue, organised by the Nigeria Police Force to mark the 2026 International Youth Day.
He reminded youths that while politicians contest elections, it is citizens who live with the consequences:
“As we approach the 2027 electoral cycle, I urge you to remember a very simple, but profound reality that politicians contest elections, but you live with consequences thereafter.”
The police chief noted that political actors often reconcile after elections despite fierce campaigns, stressing that the Police Force respects the rights of youths to participate in politics, support parties, and campaign freely.
“Our responsibility is to create a security environment in which these democratic rights can be experienced freely and safely. We will protect citizens, facilitate peaceful campaigns, secure candidates, campaign venues and public spaces within the law. We will protect the integrity of the electoral environment, but will not protect violence, tolerate the recruitment or mobilisation of young Nigerians for political violence.”
Disu urged collective responsibility in safeguarding peace and democratic values, while cautioning youths against spreading false information and harmful online content.
He highlighted the risks of digital footprints, noting that online activities could affect future opportunities:
“You know now, the moment you go to the embassies for your visa, they are checking you on social media to see what and what you are doing. So, your footprints are very important, so before you forward a message, verify it and before you publish or circulate, establish the facts.”
The IGP encouraged youths to become drivers of national transformation rather than instruments of destruction, stressing that responsible digital behaviour is critical to their future.