The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has warned that the conduct of its personnel before, during, and after the 2027 general elections will largely determine the credibility of the electoral process. The force has emphasized strict adherence to rules of engagement and zero tolerance for partisan behaviour or compromise.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Tunji Disu made this known during his inaugural conference with Strategic Police Managers in Abuja on Wednesday, stressing that any officer found acting outside established protocols or engaging in partisan conduct would face disciplinary action, including dismissal.

Disu highlighted that expectations of the public regarding police conduct will rise as the 2027 elections approach. He assured that under his leadership, officers will collaborate closely with the Armed Forces and other sister agencies to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process while maintaining the highest professional standards.

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, our responsibility to the nation becomes both heightened and non-negotiable. The credibility of the electoral process, the stability of our democracy, and the confidence of the Nigerian people will depend largely on the conduct of the Nigerian Police Force as the lead agency in election security management,” Disu said.

He stressed that police officers must enforce the law firmly, remain impartial, uphold professionalism, and maintain strict neutrality in all electoral engagements.

“We will secure the electoral process before, during, and after the elections; protect democratic institutions, electoral officials, voters, and critical infrastructure; and ensure that every Nigerian can exercise their civic rights freely, peacefully, and without fear or intimidation.”

The IGP noted that crowd management and public order duties would be conducted with restraint, proportionality, and strict adherence to human rights and the rule of law.

“The use of force, where unavoidable, must always be lawful, measured, and accountable.

While we will work in close coordination with the Armed Forces, sister security agencies, and the intelligence community to deliver a seamless and unified election security framework, the Nigerian Police Force will retain and discharge its leadership role with clarity of command and responsibility.”

Disu assured that there would be zero tolerance for misconduct or abuse of authority.
“Let me state without ambiguity: any officer found to have compromised neutrality, violated electoral laws, or acted outside approved rules of engagement will face swift and decisive disciplinary action, including prosecution where applicable. There will be no exception and no excuse. This leadership will stand with officers who do right.”

He stressed that public trust is the biggest asset of the police and that the era of intense public scrutiny has arrived.

“Leadership is not just about positions, but the responsibilities that come with them, and I understand the weight of this responsibility,” he said, urging all men and women of the force to ensure Nigerians are treated with dignity and respect for human rights at all times.

The IGP described the initiative as “the beginning of a new administrative phase” that prioritizes professionalism, accountability, and the welfare of personnel.