By 
Katsina Times

The Katsina State Police Command has led youths and other stakeholders on a peace walk aimed at curbing political violence, digital thuggery and other activities capable of threatening peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The walk, held in Katsina on Friday as part of activities marking the 2026 International Youth Day, was led by the Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar-Fage, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Aminu Usman-Gusau.

The event brought together youth leaders, representatives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), civil society organisations and police officers.

The 2026 International Youth Day is being commemorated under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” with a sub-theme focusing on “Campaign Against Political and Digital Thuggery.”

Addressing participants before the walk, Umar-Fage said the initiative was designed to promote peace, unity and constructive engagement between the police and young people.

He urged youths not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.

The police commissioner also cautioned young people against electoral offences, hate speech, misinformation and other activities that could undermine peace and security.

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“Your phone is for building, not for burning. Let us use this energy for development and not destruction,” Umar-Fage said.

He urged youths to use social media responsibly by promoting peaceful coexistence, constructive dialogue and messages capable of contributing to development.

Umar-Fage said the police command remained committed to working with youths and other stakeholders to prevent crime and create a safer environment for residents across the state.

According to him, the command’s approach to youth engagement is built around three key areas: enforcement, engagement and empowerment.

He added that activities marking the celebration would continue on Saturday with a youth dialogue session at the police command headquarters, focusing on digital literacy and responsible youth participation in governance.

The commissioner appreciated the stakeholders who participated in the programme and urged residents to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

(NAN)