Retired IGPs Urge Nigeria Police to Prepare for 2027 Elections

Retired Inspectors General of Police Mike Okiro and Usman Alkali Baba, along with retired Deputy Inspector General Taiwo Lakanu representing the Police Service Commission (PSC), called for the Nigeria Police Force to develop a comprehensive security roadmap for the 2027 general elections. This appeal was made during the Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers (CARSPO 2026) held at the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Centre in Owerri, Imo State.

Okiro highlighted significant security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and disinformation, proposing a roadmap centered on a unified police-led inter-agency command structure, police neutrality, and improved officer welfare. Baba, who managed security for the 2023 elections, emphasized the need for a standing roadmap based on lessons learned from previous elections, citing emerging threats like vote buying and AI-generated misinformation.

The retreat aimed to enhance collaboration among various security agencies and stakeholders to ensure effective election management.