The police have warned supporters of political parties against destroying or vandalising campaign posters, banners and signs belonging to opposition candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Wednesday by the police public relations officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police urged those involved in the act to desist, warning that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted.

The police added that damaging, destroying or removing another person’s campaign materials without permission was a crime.

“This is against the law, including Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law.”

They made it clear that belonging to a group or supporting a particular candidate did not give anyone the right to destroy another person’s property or prevent them from campaigning.

According the statement, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has directed commissioners of police in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to take action to prevent such incidents from recurring.

The directive also requires police units to investigate all reported cases and ensure that those found guilty are arrested and prosecuted.

The police also warned that anyone who assisted, encouraged or supported those involved in damaging campaign materials would face punishment if there was evidence of their involvement.

The statement urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to act peacefully and respect the rights of others, even when they disagreed politically.

It added that all candidates and political groups were protected under the law and warned that it would not allow violent individuals to turn the country into a lawless environment ahead of the 2027 elections.