RismadarVoice Reporters
November 5, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force has assured members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other ad hoc personnel engaged by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of security protection during the 2027 general elections.
The assurance follows growing concerns over attacks and kidnappings involving young Nigerians travelling for national assignments.
Speaking at a joint security agencies briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the police had assessed potential threats and were strengthening arrangements to protect electoral personnel.
According to him, the Force is working with INEC and other security agencies to ensure adequate protection before, during and after the elections.
Iniedu explained that election periods could expose temporary electoral workers to security risks, particularly in areas affected by criminal activities and political tensions.
He cited previous security engagements involving corps members, their parents and other stakeholders as examples of measures intended to build confidence among electoral personnel.
The police spokesperson said similar arrangements would be implemented nationwide through established inter-agency security structures.
The assurance comes after the October 1 abduction of 20 prospective corps members and another traveller along the Owerri–Onitsha Road in Imo State.
The victims regained their freedom on October 7 following a coordinated security operation, while five suspects were subsequently arraigned over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping.
Iniedu also disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police had directed the deployment of additional operational resources and logistics to strengthen election security.
He maintained that protecting corps members and other temporary electoral workers remained a priority.
The police spokesperson further warned political actors against hate speech, incitement and actions capable of triggering electoral violence.
According to him, the Force had documented approximately 11 reported hate-speech cases and taken steps to address them.
He said Commissioners of Police had been directed to investigate reported offences and ensure that individuals found to have violated applicable laws were brought before the courts.
Iniedu also disclosed that complaint channels had been established for members of the public to report alleged failures by police commissioners to respond appropriately to security complaints.
Meanwhile, INEC has been strengthening cooperation with security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
The commission has identified the protection of election personnel, voters and electoral materials as an important part of preparations for the polls.
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining a secure environment for electoral activities and urged Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies throughout the election period.
