The Benue State Police Command has warned political parties and candidates against engaging thugs, cult groups or other criminal elements in their campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, issued the warning on Wednesday in Makurdi during a Peace Accord signing ceremony attended by political party chairmen, candidates, representatives of sister security agencies and other stakeholders.
The accord was organised to promote peaceful political activities and strengthen security across the state during the electoral period.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, the commissioner urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that their supporters conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly.
Nwadiogbu specifically cautioned against recruiting or deploying political thugs, cult groups and other criminal elements to intimidate opponents or interfere with legitimate political activities.
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The participating parties and candidates subsequently signed the Peace Accord, pledging to reject political violence, respect the rights of other political actors and work with security agencies to maintain peace throughout the electoral process.
The commissioner assured the political parties and candidates that the police command would remain professional and impartial while providing adequate security for lawful political activities.
He also advised stakeholders to maintain communication with the police and other security agencies, particularly when planning rallies, campaigns and other major political events.
The command further urged political leaders, candidates, supporters and residents to uphold the provisions of the accord and contribute to peaceful and credible political activities across Benue State.
According to the PPRO, stakeholders at the meeting also reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful campaigns, adherence to the rule of law and the protection of lives and property throughout the electoral period.