Disu gives affected state commissioners 72 hours to submit security reports, orders deployment of reinforcements and warns officers against political interference.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has cancelled leave for police personnel assigned to election security duties ahead of the 2027 general elections and ordered an intensified nationwide crackdown on bandits.
Disu also directed the immediate deployment of additional police personnel, operational vehicles and air support to communities affected by bandit attacks, warning that the Force would not relent until criminal elements were brought under control.
The police chief issued the directives on Wednesday at the monthly conference of strategic senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja.
As part of the emergency security measures, Commissioners of Police in affected states have been given 72 hours to submit updated security threat assessments and operational requirements to Force Headquarters.
The IGP directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations to coordinate the deployment of additional personnel and equipment to the most affected areas in consultation with the respective commands.
Acknowledging the continued threat posed by bandits in some parts of the country, Disu said the police leadership was determined to confront the situation through intelligence-led operations and stronger collaboration with local communities.
He ordered police commands to establish operational plans for high-risk areas and intensify intelligence gathering through traditional rulers, village heads, hunters' associations and local vigilante groups.
"The people know who the bandits are. We must give them the confidence to tell us," he said.
Disu declared that the police would not ignore the security challenges confronting affected communities, adding that officers must demonstrate their commitment through concrete action.
"The bandits do not rest, neither shall we," he said.
On preparations for the 2027 general elections, the IGP announced the immediate cancellation of leave for all officers and personnel assigned election security duties.
He also directed Commissioners of Police and other senior officers to remain within their respective commands until the conclusion of the electoral process.
According to him, any senior officer intending to travel outside his or her command must obtain express approval from Force Headquarters.
Disu further ordered Commissioners of Police to inspect election security equipment, communication facilities, operational vehicles and protective gear, with reports on their readiness expected by the end of the week.
He directed police commands to establish direct coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission, the military, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to ensure effective security arrangements before and during the polls.
The police chief warned officers against allowing politicians to use them to compromise the electoral process, facilitate thuggery or interfere with the rights of voters.
He insisted that the Force must remain non-partisan and provide equal protection to candidates, political parties, supporters
2027 Elections: IGP Cancels Police Leave, Orders Crackdown on Bandits
