The Sokoto State Police Command has drawn a firm line in the sand ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning political parties, candidates, and their supporters to steer clear of violence, hate speech, and digital disinformation.
During a high-stakes stakeholders’ meeting with party chairmen and representatives in Sokoto, the Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Shafa, emphasized that the coming electoral cycle must be treated as a healthy contest of ideas and policies rather than an existential battle won through force.
Addressing political leaders directly, Shafa made it clear that party executives will face personal accountability for the rogue behavior of their followers, youth wings, and social media influencers. He stressed that the era of looking the other way while digital mobs or physical thugs disrupt public peace is officially over.
“We are gathered here today not as rivals but as custodians of Sokoto State’s future. The elections ahead are not a war to be won by force. They are a contest of ideas to be won by the will of the people… If your supporters, be they youth wings or social media influencers, disturb the peace, we will hold you personally accountable. The days of looking the other way are over,” Shafa declared.
The police chief specifically cautioned politicians against weaponizing youth, destroying campaign materials, displaying weapons at rallies, or deploying unauthorized private security outfits. Furthermore, he issued a stern warning regarding vulnerable security zones across the state—explicitly highlighting flashpoints like Sabon Birni, Rabah, Kebbe, Tureta, and Isa—urging actors not to endanger lives for political leverage.
While representatives from major political platforms, including the APC and opposition parties, pledged their commitment to peace and compliance with the Electoral Act, the police command reiterated that the full weight of the law will be brought down on any violator without fear or favor.
