Kano police chief warns politicians against violence, hate speech ahead of 2027 elections

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Commissioner of Police for Kano State, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has issued a stern warning to political parties and contestants, urging them to refrain from violence, hate speech, and the dissemination of fake news. The warning came during a strategic engagement with political leaders and contestants at the Police Command in Kano.

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Political leaders and contestants must understand that the security of Kano is a collective responsibility. We will not allow political activities to become a platform for violence, intimidation or destruction of property.

Bakori emphasized that maintaining peace and security in Kano is a shared responsibility. He stated that the police would not permit political activities to devolve into acts of violence, intimidation, or property destruction. "We will not allow political activities to become a platform for violence, intimidation or destruction of property," Bakori declared.

The commissioner specifically called on political actors to shun hate speech and incitement, whether online or offline. He also warned against the use of thugs and digital platforms to provoke unrest, asserting that "no political ambition is worth the destruction of lives and property."

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Shun hate speech, fake news and incitement, whether online or offline. Reject violence and thuggery in all forms, because no political ambition is worth the destruction of lives and property.

Furthermore, Bakori directed political parties and candidates to adhere strictly to the Electoral Act 2022 and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines. This includes obtaining necessary permits for rallies. He urged party leaders to assume responsibility for the conduct of their supporters, stating, "You must call your supporters to order and take responsibility for their conduct. Nobody should hide behind supporters to breach public peace or commit electoral offences."

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You must call your supporters to order and take responsibility for their conduct. Nobody should hide behind supporters to breach public peace or commit electoral offences.

Assuring a level playing field, Bakori stated that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, would provide security for INEC facilities, candidates, and campaign venues. The command will also establish an Election Security Situation Room and a Complaint Response Desk to enhance its responsiveness to emerging threats and electoral complaints. Bakori concluded by warning that anyone found violating the law or threatening public peace would face arrest and prosecution, regardless of their political status.

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Anyone, regardless of status, found breaching public peace or committing electoral offences will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.