The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11 Headquarters, Osogbo, AIG Bassey Samuel Ewah, has warned police officers serving in Osun and Oyo states against engaging in partisan politics or conduct capable of compromising their neutrality.
Ewah gave the warning in a statement issued on Friday by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ojedele Olanrewaju Tunji, as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum.
The AIG reminded officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force that they are expected to remain apolitical, professional and impartial in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
He said the warning was in line with directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, at the recently concluded CARSPO 2026 Conference and Retreat for senior police officers in Owerri, Imo State.
According to Ewah, the police must maintain strict neutrality and provide a level playing field for all political actors during campaigns and elections.
He stressed that officers must ensure that political parties and their supporters operate within the limits of the law without allowing personal or political interests to influence their duties.
“The duty of the Nigeria Police Force is to provide a level playing field for all political actors, ensuring that the rules of engagement and the laws of the land are respected and adhered to by all parties,” he said.
Ewah also appealed to politicians in Osun and Oyo states to conduct their political activities peacefully and avoid actions capable of causing violence or disrupting public order.
He urged political actors to engage in their campaigns “without bitterness,” adding that they should avoid rancour, violence and other acts capable of threatening public peace.
The AIG warned that individuals who violate the law or engage in activities capable of causing a breakdown of law and order would face appropriate legal consequences.
He further assured political parties and their supporters that Zone 11 would, in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, provide the necessary security for peaceful campaigns and other political activities.
Ewah, however, charged officers under his supervision to uphold professionalism, impartiality and discipline at all times.
He warned them against any conduct that could undermine the neutrality and integrity of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.