Police Promise to Protect NYSC Members During 2027 Elections

(Nigeria Police Officials. Photo Credit: Nation News)
The Nigeria Police Force says it will protect NYSC members and other temporary workers hired by the INEC, during the 2027 general elections.

The promise follows worries about recent kidnappings of corps members in several parts of the country.

Corps members make up a large share of INEC's temporary workforce.

Police spokesman Ani Iniedu gave the assurance on Thursday at a joint security briefing at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.

Iniedu said the police carried out a detailed threat assessment and are tightening security for election staff before, during and after the polls.

He said police are working with INEC and other security agencies to protect corps members and other temporary workers.

He warned that as well-guarded targets become harder to attack, criminals may look for easier targets elsewhere.

He pointed to the Osun State election, where police met with corps members, their parents and other stakeholders to promise protection.

He said the same will happen for the general election.

Iniedu said police are adding more officers to election duty.

The Inspector-General of Police has also ordered that operational equipment and logistics be handed out right away.

He told corps members and young people taking part in the election that their safety is a top priority.

We will do everything within our capacity to ensure that those assisting in the democratic process are adequately protected, he said.

Iniedu also warned politicians against hate speech, incitement and political violence.

He said police have recorded 11 cases of hate speech so far.

The Inspector General has ordered all Commissioners of Police to arrest and prosecute people behind such acts.

Police have also set up complaint channels so the public can report any police commander who fails to act.