Security Meeting Set for 2027 Elections in Plateau

The Plateau State Police Command has brought together leaders of political parties and their candidates for a meeting ahead of the 2027 general elections. They assured everyone that security agencies would not allow violence to happen in the state.

The meeting took place at the Police Officers’ Mess in Jos on Thursday. Representatives from the Department of State Services, the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Nigerian Army, the National Orientation Agency, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council attended.

In his opening speech, the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Faniyan Ayodeji, said the meeting aimed to promote a peaceful, credible, and transparent election process.

CP Ayodeji acknowledged that Plateau State has been identified as a potential hotspot for violence as the elections approach. He emphasized that security measures are already in place to prevent any issues.

"We have seen some areas with insecurity. As the election period gets closer, many are focusing on Plateau State. Our job as security agencies is to disappoint those expecting violence," he stated.

The commissioner shared that the Inspector-General of Police was informed about the security situation in Plateau. The IG has agreed to send more personnel and resources to tackle any challenges.

He explained that the Command is working with other agencies to gather information about places with a history of electoral violence. They are also identifying threats related to election activities.

"We are making preparations by identifying potential threats of election-related violence and other crimes that might arise. We are ready to work with all political parties and candidates. We will create good security plans and provide protection for everyone," he said.

CP Ayodeji highlighted several threats to watch, including vote-buying, thuggery, hate speech, incitement to violence, and problems within and between parties. He also mentioned the misuse of artificial intelligence and social media.

"Some of the issues we are discussing include campaign conduct and content. These can lead to violence, intimidation, or incitement. We will focus on vote-buying, thuggery, hate speech, and the role of AI in elections," he said.

He urged political leaders to strictly follow the Electoral Act and to treat elections as competitions, not wars.

"Elections are not a do-or-die matter. They should not lead to violence or division. Every party has the chance to speak to the people and ask for votes, and then we all wait for voting day to see what the people choose," he said.

Reaffirming the neutrality of the police, CP Ayodeji said, "I assure you that the Nigeria Police, as the main agency for internal security, will work with all agencies to ensure neutrality. We have no option but to be neutral. Our past performance shows this, like during the recent elections in the western states. The Inspector General has directed us to perform even better this time."

He assured everyone that the Command has enough personnel to cover polling units across the state. Patrol vehicles will be available for quick responses, while intelligence operations will track anyone who causes disturbances.

Mr Paul Damian, the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), also spoke. He said the Service would collaborate with other agencies to ensure proper security.

"We will work together with other agencies to provide the needed security during the elections," he said.

Damian pointed out that if political leaders and INEC do their jobs well, the burden on security agencies would lessen.

"Some have questioned if the police have enough manpower for all areas. I believe if INEC and the politicians act responsibly, we won't need security in all places," he said.

He added, "On our part, we will ensure adequate security, and I will personally remain neutral. I will make sure everyone under me does their job properly."

Mrs Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, the State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), urged political parties to encourage their supporters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and avoid vote-buying.

"Are you ready for this election? Do you have your PVC ready? Your PVC must be ready so you won't resort to vote-buying or force others to sell their votes," she said.

"If you do not have your PVC on election day, please stay at home."

Pam-Hworo reminded politicians that there is only one governorship seat available and urged them to accept the results peacefully.

"In every election, there is a winner and a loser. For the governorship, only one person will win. After the elections, we must maintain peace," she said.

She advised party leaders to talk to their supporters and warned that any violence at polling units could lead to result cancellations.

"To all political parties, especially IPAC, please speak to your members. Fighting in polling units leads to cancellations. Do not let people's efforts be wasted on election day. Do not hire troublemakers just because you fear losing," she said.

The NOA director also condemned the spread of fake news and attacks on individuals' characters.

"Do not stir trouble where there is none. We are enjoying some peace in the state, and we must keep it. Do not engage in false information or character attacks just for political gain. I urge all of us to maintain our integrity," she said.

Prof. Sam Egwu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Plateau State, represented by the Head of Electoral Operations, said INEC is ready for a peaceful and fair election.

"I speak for the State Resident Electoral Commissioner. He asked me to confirm if you have thought about our discussions three days ago," he said.

"I want to assure you that INEC is prepared. Our preparations at the state level are almost done. We are set to deliver a peaceful, free, and transparent election."

He noted that measures are being put in place to ensure everyone, including people with disabilities and internally displaced persons (IDPs), can vote.

"This election will be inclusive. Everyone in society will have the chance to vote, including persons living with disabilities and IDPs," he said.

He mentioned that Wase, Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Bassa, and others are among the local government areas facing IDP challenges.

"We discussed this in detail three days ago. If you know of IDPs outside those nine Local Governments, please inform us. The Commission is working nationally with organizations to ensure IDPs can vote."

He described the meeting as a way to strengthen preparations for the elections.