Police promise protection for corps members on 2027 election duty

The Nigeria Police Force has promised to protect members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other temporary staff hired by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the 2027 general elections.

The force spokesman, Ani Iniedu, gave the assurance on Thursday at a joint briefing by security and intelligence agencies in Abuja, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The promise comes after two recent abductions involving young Nigerians travelling for national service. In November 2026, nine corps members and a commercial driver were abducted on the Ijebu-Ode–Ibadan road in Ogun State. In October 2026, 20 prospective corps members were kidnapped on the Owerri-Onitsha road in Imo State. That case has since gone to court.

The incidents have raised fresh worries about the safety of corps members, who make up a large share of the ad hoc workers INEC relies on during elections.

Threat assessment and more deployments

Iniedu said the police had carried out a wide threat assessment and were tightening security around electoral staff and materials, working with INEC and other security agencies before, during and after the polls.

He said criminals often turn to softer targets once harder ones are fortified. “In every election cycle, there are potential threats to soft targets,” he said, adding that the force was preparing for the challenges ahead.

He pointed to the Osun State election, where he said the police engaged corps members, their parents and other stakeholders on security, and the exercise passed without incident.

According to him, deployments are being increased, and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has ordered that operational equipment and logistics be distributed immediately.

“I want to assure members of the public, particularly corps members and young Nigerians participating in the electoral process, that their safety remains a priority for the Nigeria Police Force,” Iniedu said.

Warning on hate speech

The police also warned politicians against hate speech, incitement and other acts that could disrupt the elections. Iniedu said about 11 cases of hate speech had been documented and acted upon.

He said the Inspector-General had directed all Commissioners of Police to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in such offences, which he described as criminal.

He added that complaint channels have been set up so members of the public can report any Commissioner of Police who fails to act on offenders.

What happens next: The police say equipment and logistics are being rolled out now. Corps members and other young Nigerians due to work at the 2027 polls can expect to hear more from the force and INEC on security plans as the election draws closer.