2027: Tinubu Warns Police Against Political Interference

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the Nigeria Police Force to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and impartiality in the discharge of its responsibilities ahead of the 2027 General Elections, stressing that the Police must never be seen as an instrument of any political interest.

The President gave the charge at the 2026 Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Owerri, Imo State, in an address delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

In a statement by the spokesman of the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, President Tinubu said every Nigerian, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, social status or geographical location, must feel protected by the Police, noting that the neutrality and professionalism of the Force are fundamental to public confidence and the credibility of the nation’s democracy.

“The police must be seen not as an instrument of any political interest, but as a national institution serving the Nigerian people and protecting the constitutional order. This is fundamental to public trust and to the credibility of our democracy,” the President said.

Speaking on the theme of the conference, “Developing a Nigeria Police Roadmap for Effective Management of Security During Elections”, President Tinubu said the 2027 elections would require careful preparation, professionalism, impartiality, intelligence-led operations and close coordination among security and electoral stakeholders.

He added that the security of the electoral process goes beyond protecting ballot papers and polling stations to safeguarding citizens, electoral officials and materials, while creating an environment where political parties and candidates can campaign peacefully.

President Tinubu assured officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force that the Federal Government values their sacrifices and remains committed to supporting them, adding that such support must be matched by courage, integrity, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional duties.