The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has warned politicians to avoid recruiting or arming youths for use in attacking their political opponents ahead of the 2027 elections.
Disu issued the warning on Thursday in Abuja during a youth leadership and national security dialogue organized by the Nigeria Police Force to mark the 2026 International Youth Day.
The IGP stated that the force would not tolerate violence, possession, or use of weapons for electoral activities, voter intimidation, or destruction of property.
He urged political leaders not to recruit youths, arm them, or sponsor violence, saying such actions could ruin the country's future.
Disu also warned against political violence unfolding on social media, including the spread of fake news, hate speech, cyberbullying, impersonation, deepfakes, and digital attacks.
He advised youths to verify the authenticity of information they obtain online before sharing it, and to avoid content that could trigger conflict or violence.
The IGP's warning follows reports of killings and attacks that accompanied the recent Osun State governorship election, in which the Accord and APC parties lost some of their members.
Among those killed was Dele Ayegbo, a relative of Wole Oke, the APC campaign Director-General in the state, who reports say was shot two days before the election.
However, the police force has insisted that some of the pre-election clashes and killings were linked to cult groups, rather than direct political disputes.