By Barth Ikiebe
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for responsible reporting and stronger Police-media collaboration to combat misinformation and support peaceful, credible elections in 2027.
He made the call on Wednesday, 11th November 2026, at the 3rd Annual Conference and Awards of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN), themed “Navigating Security Challenges in the 2027 Election: The Role of the Media in Combating Fake News.”
In a remark, the IGP stressed that election preparedness requires credible public communication alongside operational readiness.
He warned that fabricated reports, recycled videos and unverified claims could provoke panic, discourage voters and undermine confidence in the electoral process.
IGP Disu urged Journalists to verify sensitive material and distinguish established facts from allegations before publication.
The IGP outlined the Force’s response to deliberate misinformation and incitement, including online monitoring through the National Cybercrime Centre, expanded cybercrime capacity within Criminal Investigation Departments nationwide, digital forensic investigations and prompt, evidence-based public communication.
He emphasised that these measures protect public safety, rather than suppress legitimate criticism or honest journalism.
Describing Crime correspondents as partners in public safety and accountability, the IGP called for accurate and fair reporting of both the Force’s achievements and shortcomings.
Disu noted that independent scrutiny strengthens accountability and that a free, responsible press is essential to credible elections.
The CCAN Chairman, Festus Ejiroghene Fifen, advocated closer pre-election collaboration, including journalists’ involvement in scenario-building and election-security simulations.
He called for conflict-sensitive reporting, improved journalist welfare and specialised training in fact-checking, digital forensics and crisis reporting, while commending the IGP’s support for the Association.
The Force spokesman, CSP Ani Iniedu, said in a statement, that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to election readiness, transparent communication and constructive media engagement in safeguarding the electoral process and the safety of all Nigerians.
