WorldStage– The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has announced the immediate cancellation of leave for all police personnel assigned to election security duties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The police chief issued the directive on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, during his monthly strategic conference with senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja.
In addition to suspending leave, Disu restricted the movement of Commissioners of Police and senior officers, mandating that they remain within their respective commands and seek explicit approval from Force Headquarters before traveling.
“All leave is cancelled for officers and men deployed for election security duties, effective immediately,” Disu declared at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Centre, adding that senior leadership must stay put until the election concludes.
Commands were ordered to inspect and verify their election security equipment, vehicles, and communication tools, with readiness reports due by the week’s end.
Disu also instructed commands to coordinate closely with INEC, the military, the DSS, and the NSCDC.
Emphasizing electoral integrity, Disu warned personnel against aiding politicians, facilitating thuggery, or violating voters’ rights.
According to him, officers engaging in misconduct or political collusion will face strict disciplinary measures.
He reiterated the force’s commitment to neutrality and equal protection for all parties and voters.
During the conference, Disu also ordered an intensified nationwide crackdown on banditry, directing immediate deployments of personnel and air support while giving impacted state commands 72 hours to submit updated threat assessments.
