President Tinubu Warns Police Against Partisanship Ahead of 2027 Elections

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu warned the Nigeria Police Force against serving political interests as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. Speaking through Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume at a senior police officers' retreat in Owerri, Tinubu emphasized that the police must operate as a neutral national institution to maintain public trust and democratic credibility. He tasked senior officers with creating a practical roadmap for election security that protects citizens and prevents intimidation.

This directive follows calls for heightened security from within the ruling All Progressives Congress. On September 20, APC chieftain Olatunbosun Oyintiloye urged the president to prioritize national security over political distractions. Oyintiloye called for intensified surveillance and inter-agency collaboration following intelligence alerts regarding potential terrorist attacks on public gathering centers and places of worship, particularly in southern Nigeria.

Tinubu reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to police reforms through investments in technology, training, and welfare. He commended Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu for efforts to reposition the force against kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism. Meanwhile, Oyintiloye demanded a transparent investigation into recent killings in Osun State and urged state governors to provide more resources to security agencies to safeguard vulnerable locations.