Nasarawa State police command has warned politicians against hate speech, violence and the spread of false information ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The state Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, gave the warning on Tuesday in Lafia after a meeting with heads of security agencies.
He said political activities must comply with the law and urged parties to obtain approvals for rallies and respect the rights of others.
He said: “Elections and political engagements are the cornerstone of our democracy.
“However, they must be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“It is in this regard that we consider it necessary to speak directly to all political actors, across party lines.”
Mohammed warned against actions capable of inciting violence.
He said: “We strongly urge politicians to refrain from actions and utterances capable of inciting violence or disrupting public peace.
“We call on all political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their supporters.
“They must be cautioned against engaging in violent protests, unlawful rallies, thuggery, and any act that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
“The era of sponsoring violence — whether directly or indirectly — must come to an end.”
He said security agencies would act against offenders regardless of status.
He said: “Let me state clearly and unequivocally: security agencies in Nasarawa State will not tolerate any form of politically motivated violence.
“Any individual or group found instigating, sponsoring, or participating in such acts will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law, regardless of status, position, or political affiliation.”
The police commissioner also advised youths to avoid being used for violence.
He said: “Choose peace, uphold the law, and serve as ambassadors of responsible civic engagement.”
He stressed that maintaining peace requires collective effort.
He said: “Peace is a collective responsibility.
“We must all work together — politicians, supporters, community leaders, and security agencies — to sustain harmony and stability in Nasarawa State.
“We therefore call on all political actors to lead by example, promote peaceful coexistence, and place the interest of the state above personal or partisan considerations.”
