BY TAIBAT UMMI YAKUBU

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has introduced tighter operational measures ahead of the 2027 general elections, cancelling leave for personnel assigned to election security and placing restrictions on the movement of senior officers across the country.

Under the new directive, commissioners of police and other senior officers must remain within their respective commands until the electoral process is concluded, while any movement outside their areas of responsibility will require explicit clearance from the Force Headquarters.

Disu announced the measures on Wednesday during a strategic meeting with senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja, where he outlined the force's preparations for securing the forthcoming elections.

He made it clear that officers assigned to election duties would not be permitted to proceed on leave, with the cancellation taking immediate effect.

“All leave is cancelled for officers and men deployed for election security duties, effective immediately,” the IGP declared.

He further warned senior officers against travelling without authorisation, insisting that those responsible for policing their respective jurisdictions must remain available throughout the election period.

Beyond personnel deployment, the police chief has also ordered a comprehensive assessment of security equipment and operational facilities to prevent logistical failures during the elections.

He directed commissioners of police to inspect communication systems, operational vehicles, protective equipment and other essential security facilities within their commands and submit their readiness reports before the end of the week.

To strengthen election security, Disu also instructed police commands to establish direct working relationships with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

However, the IGP's strongest warning was directed at officers who might be tempted to serve the interests of politicians rather than uphold the law.

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He cautioned personnel against allowing themselves to be recruited into political schemes, facilitate violence or interfere with the rights of voters, stressing that the police would maintain strict neutrality throughout the electoral process.

According to him, every candidate, political party, supporter and eligible voter must receive equal protection, irrespective of political affiliation.

“I will not tolerate any officer using the authority of the police to advance the interest of any political party, candidate or sponsor,” Disu warned.

He added that personnel found working with political actors to undermine elections, encourage thuggery or intimidate voters would face disciplinary action in accordance with the law.

The police chief further reminded officers that their uniforms and official positions must never become instruments for political manipulation, warning that anyone who allows politicians to exploit their authority would be held personally responsible.

“The Nigeria Police Force is not a tool for any politician, any party or any interest. If you allow yourself to be used, you will face the consequences alone.

“Protect the process, protect the people, and protect your own career and reputation. Do not be used,” he said.

The directives form part of the police leadership's preparations to strengthen security operations, maintain discipline within the force and prevent political interference as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.