The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a discreet investigation into alleged inciting comments made by several political figures, including Senator Francis Fadahunsi of Osun East, Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, and Danjuma Shekwolo, the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory. This move comes as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections.

During a joint security briefing in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, highlighted the seriousness of the allegations, stating that inciting comments, particularly those related to the electoral process, are considered criminal offenses. Senator Fadahunsi is under scrutiny for allegedly threatening members of the Accord Party during the recent Osun governorship election.

Iniedu confirmed that he had personally questioned Fadahunsi regarding these remarks. "The law is very clear when it comes to inciting. It is criminal to incite members of the public, especially as you comment on the electoral process," he stated. The police are currently examining all statements attributed to the involved political actors and will release the findings of their investigations to the public.

The investigation follows alarming statements made by Buba, who reportedly threatened to flog residents who do not support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming election. Similarly, Shekwolo warned residents of Kuje to either vote for the APC or leave the council area. These comments have raised concerns about the potential for electoral violence.

In addition to these investigations, the police have not forgotten about the 154 individuals arrested during the Osun State governorship election on August 15. Iniedu confirmed that these suspects are still under investigation, urging the public to assist law enforcement by providing evidence and statements that may lead to successful prosecutions.

The police spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced in securing convictions, particularly the reluctance of witnesses to come forward. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the judicial process, stating, "He who alleges must prove his allegations. The challenge we have in Nigeria right now is that most of our witnesses do not come forward when it is time to go to court."

In a related matter, the police defended their actions during a recent protest by pensioners in Lagos, where officers allegedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Iniedu acknowledged the right of pensioners to demand their entitlements but insisted that such protests must remain lawful and orderly. He reiterated that while the police support peaceful agitation, they are also obligated to maintain public order.

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has previously invited the pensioners to discuss their grievances and guide them on appropriate channels for their demands. Iniedu urged pensioners to conduct their protests peacefully, assuring them of police support in addressing their concerns.

As the political climate intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all political actors adhere to the law, emphasizing that they will not hesitate to act against those who incite violence or disrupt public order.