Yobe Police Warn Politicians, Youths Against Violence Ahead of 2027 Campaigns

By Ahmed Isah

The Yobe Police Command has warned politicians and youths against acts capable of disrupting the peace in the state as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Usman Jibrin, gave the warning while briefing journalists shortly after the State Security Council meeting chaired by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, on Monday in Damaturu.

Jibrin said the meeting reviewed the security situation across the state and adopted new strategies to further strengthen the maintenance of law and order and tackle criminal activities.

He said the command had recorded significant progress in its security operations, including a reduction in several categories of crime.

“From our statistics this year, we are recording the lowest figures on so many angles, so we are making progress,” he said.

The commissioner also expressed concern over emerging political activities and urged political actors to conduct their campaigns peacefully and within the provisions of the law.

He said the command had already noticed some disturbances linked to political movements and that some suspects had been arrested and would soon be prosecuted.

Jibrin specifically referred to an incident involving supporters of a former Secretary to the State Government and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, who were allegedly prevented from moving out of Machina while attending an open campaign.

He said the police had arrested some persons in connection with the incident but declined to give a specific number, explaining that investigations were still ongoing.

The commissioner warned that nobody would be allowed to disrupt the political activities of others, regardless of political affiliation.

“I want to assure the good people of Yobe State that whatever your party is, when it is time for you to campaign, follow the necessary channels. I will give you adequate security.

“But hooligans who want to disrupt anybody will not be taken lightly. Nobody is above the law,” he said.

Jibrin urged politicians to focus their campaigns on issues rather than personalities, saying acts such as destroying vehicles, attacking opponents or engaging in street violence would not help the democratic process.

“You cannot win election by throwing stones. Deal with your political issues on issues. Discuss your political intentions on issues, not personality, not destruction,” he said.

He also cautioned youths against allowing themselves to be used by politicians to commit crimes, saying those caught would personally face arrest and prosecution.

The commissioner urged youths to demand evidence before acting on instructions allegedly given by political sponsors, stressing that identifying the persons who sent them would help security agencies establish responsibility.

“Do not allow anybody to stay at the background and push you. Identify the person, know him very well and have evidence to prove that he was the one who sent you to do it,” he said.

On the insurgency, Jibrin said the security agencies in the state had continued to adopt new strategies and technologies to prevent attacks and respond to emerging threats.

He said the security agencies remained committed to protecting residents and ensuring that criminal and insurgent elements were prevented from undermining the peace being enjoyed in the state.

The commissioner assured residents that the security agencies were on top of the situation and would continue to take proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.