2027: Ekiti police warn parties against violence, vote buying
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ekiti State Police Command has warned political parties and their supporters against violence, vote buying and the spread of misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, saying the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, issued the warning during a meeting with representatives of political parties at the command headquarters in Ado-Ekiti.
Falade urged political stakeholders to comply with electoral laws, respect opposing parties and demonstrate sportsmanship throughout the electioneering period. He stressed that peaceful campaigns and responsible political conduct were essential to maintaining public order.
The police commissioner also urged political parties to submit their campaign schedules to the command early to enable effective security planning and help prevent clashes during rallies and other political activities.
Representatives of several parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), African Action Congress (AAC), Accord Party, Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), National Democratic Congress (NDC), Young Progressives Party (YPP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), attended the meeting.
During the meeting, the party representatives raised concerns about police neutrality, election security and electoral offences, including vote buying. In response, Falade assured them that the command would protect all residents without discrimination based on political affiliation, gender or social status.
He encouraged political actors to promptly report electoral offences to the police for investigation and appropriate action, adding that cooperation between political parties and security agencies was necessary to prevent breaches of the peace.
Falade reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property before, during and after the elections, urging political stakeholders to prioritise peace and lawful conduct as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
