The Benue State Police Command has warned political parties and candidates against recruiting thugs, cult members and other criminal elements as the state prepares for the 2027 elections.
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, has warned political leaders and candidates against recruiting or deploying thugs, cult members and other criminal elements to advance their political interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nwadiogbu issued the warning during a stakeholders’ meeting involving chairmen of political parties, candidates, representatives of sister security agencies and other stakeholders in Makurdi.
The meeting formed part of a peace-accord process designed to encourage peaceful political activities and prevent electoral violence in the state.
The participating political parties and candidates signed the accord, committing themselves to peaceful campaigns, respect for the rule of law and cooperation with security agencies throughout the electoral period.
Nwadiogbu specifically urged political actors to ensure that their supporters conduct themselves responsibly and peacefully during rallies, campaigns and other political activities.
He warned against the use of political thugs and cult groups to intimidate opponents, disrupt political activities or create insecurity.
The police commissioner also called on political leaders to maintain effective communication with security agencies, particularly when organising rallies and other major political events.
The command said it would maintain professionalism and impartiality while providing security for lawful political activities.
The warning comes as political activity builds ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, when competition among political parties and candidates is expected to intensify across the states.
Benue has previously experienced politically related security tensions, making the prevention of intimidation and violence an important part of the security preparations for the electoral cycle.
The peace accord therefore places responsibility not only on security agencies but also on political parties, candidates and their supporters to ensure that electoral competition does not escalate into violence.
The police command urged all stakeholders to uphold the terms of the agreement and work collectively towards peaceful and credible political activities in Benue State.