President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Police Force, declaring that any officer found engaging in partisan or unprofessional conduct during the 2027 general elections will be summarily dismissed from service.

The President delivered the ultimatum on Monday at the 2026 Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Owerri, Imo State. Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, the Commander-in-Chief charged the police leadership to uphold the highest standards of integrity as the nation prepares for its next political transition.

Tinubu emphasized that every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, or social status, must feel entirely protected by the police. He stressed that the neutrality of the Force is fundamental to maintaining public confidence and safeguarding the overall credibility of the nation’s democracy.

“The police must be seen not as an instrument of any political interest, but as a national institution serving the Nigerian people and protecting the constitutional order,” the President stated. He noted that the success of the 2027 polls will heavily rely on meticulous preparation, intelligence-led operations, and close coordination among electoral stakeholders.

According to the President, securing the electoral process goes far beyond guarding ballot papers and polling booths. He explained that true election security entails protecting citizens, electoral officials, and materials, while actively preventing violence and intimidation so Nigerians can vote without fear.

Reaffirming his administration`s commitment to ongoing police reforms, Tinubu stressed that meaningful transformation requires sustained investment. He promised that the Federal Government would continue to prioritize funding for personnel welfare, training, advanced technology, and operational logistics.

To counter increasingly sophisticated security threats, the President urged the Force to strengthen its intelligence gathering, improve emergency response times, and deepen community engagement. He also highlighted the critical need for enhanced inter-agency cooperation among all security arms in the country.

The President concluded by commending the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his efforts to reposition the Force, while honoring officers who have paid the ultimate price fighting terrorism and banditry. He, however, reminded the remaining top brass that public expectations remain exceptionally high, demanding absolute discipline and respect for human rights.