The Nigeria Police Force has expressed doubt over the continued relevance of regulating early political campaigns in the digital age, even as it pledged to enforce all laws guiding the country’s electoral process.

 

Speaking on Wednesday at the INEC roundtable on the Challenges of Premature Campaigns held at the Electoral Institute, Abuja, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, said the rise of social media had changed the dynamics of political communication.

 

“I think there is one very important question that we need to ask: do we really need to continue to regulate campaigns in 2025? Based on the fact that there is a need to bridge the gaps between our leaders and the communities and the citizens,” Egbetokun asked.

 

 

While acknowledging the importance of bridging the gap between leaders and citizens, the IGP stressed that the police remain committed to upholding laws duly enacted by the legislature.

 

“Every law that is made, we in law enforcement have a duty to enforce. The Nigeria Police Force will continue to enforce every law that has been duly passed… and ensure campaigns go on peacefully anywhere and at any time,” he said.

 

 

Egbetokun further assured that the police would provide adequate security during campaigns and elections, regardless of timing or location, emphasizing that peace and safety remain the Force’s top priority.