Federal Capital Territory Police Commissioner Ahmed Sanusi Issues Stern Warning to Youths Against Electoral Violence Ahead of 2027 Polls

FCT Commissioner Ahmed Sanusi warns Abuja youths and leaders against ballot snatching and political thuggery ahead of the 2027 general elections.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 4:31 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

A Proactive Strategy for Electoral Stability

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has initiated an early security offensive against potential electoral disruptions as Nigeria begins its long-range preparations for the 2027 general elections. Speaking during a town hall engagement in the Lugbe area of Abuja, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi articulated a firm stance against the use of violence to achieve political objectives. The session, held as part of the 2026 National Police Day celebrations, served as a platform for the command to address community leaders, religious figures, and residents directly. According to Sanusi, the goal of these early interventions is to establish a culture of peaceful political participation well before the official campaign season commences.

The Categorical Rejection of Electoral Malpractice

Commissioner Sanusi was explicit in his identification of specific illegal acts that the command intends to monitor and prosecute. He categorized ballot box snatching, the destruction of electoral materials, and the physical obstruction of electoral officers as direct threats to the nation's democratic process. According to the commissioner, such acts are often fueled by external inducements from political gladiators who seek to undermine the credibility of the polls. He reminded residents that while political affiliation is a constitutional right, it does not grant license to infringe upon the safety or rights of others.

Combating the Recruitment of Youths as Political Thugs

A significant portion of the commissioner’s address was dedicated to the protection of the youth population from political exploitation. Sanusi expressed deep concern that young Nigerians are frequently utilized as "political brigands" or thugs, receiving temporary financial inducements to engage in high-risk criminal activities. He cautioned the youth that the benefits offered by politicians are ephemeral and do not outweigh the long-term consequences of criminal records or physical harm. According to the police boss, once the election cycle concludes, those who incited the violence often abandon the individuals they recruited, leaving them to face the legal and social repercussions alone.