The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has warned politicians, party supporters and political groups against the destruction, defacement or unlawful removal of campaign posters, banners and billboards belonging to rival candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Force condemned the growing trend of political intolerance, describing the act as criminal and unacceptable, while cautioning political thugs, hoodlums and other individuals involved to desist or face arrest and prosecution.

The warning was contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.

The Police explained that the destruction or defacement of campaign materials belonging to other candidates could constitute malicious damage, an offence punishable under applicable criminal laws, including Section 451 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 326 of the Penal Code Law.

It stressed that political differences, party affiliations or loyalty to particular candidates do not confer the right to destroy another person's property or prevent political opponents from exercising their right to campaign.

The Force also reaffirmed that all political parties and candidates, regardless of their status or affiliations, are entitled to equal protection under the law.

“No individual or group has the right to determine whose campaign materials should be displayed or destroyed,” the statement declared.

According to the Police, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to strengthen preventive measures, investigate reported incidents and ensure the arrest and prosecution of anyone found culpable.

The IGP also warned that political sponsors and individuals who recruit, encourage or facilitate the destruction of campaign materials would equally face the law where evidence establishes their involvement.

The Force urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns, respect opposing political interests and avoid actions capable of threatening public peace.

It maintained that Nigeria's democratic process must not be undermined by intimidation, political intolerance or criminal activities, assuring citizens that it would not allow political thugs to turn the country's political environment into a theatre of lawlessness.

The Police reiterated that anyone found violating the law would be made to face the full consequences of their actions.