The assurance was given on Thursday, November 5, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, during a joint security agencies briefing organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.
Iniedu said the police had conducted an extensive threat assessment ahead of the elections and were strengthening security arrangements to protect corps members and other temporary electoral workers before, during and after the polls.
He explained that corps members could be considered potential soft targets during election periods, particularly as criminals might seek out less-protected individuals when other targets become more difficult to attack.
The police spokesman said the Force was working closely with INEC and other security agencies through established inter-agency arrangements to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the electoral process.
He cited the Osun State governorship election as an example of previous efforts to address security concerns, explaining that the police had engaged corps members, their parents and other stakeholders to reassure them of their safety.
According to him, similar arrangements would be implemented during the 2027 general elections.
Iniedu also disclosed that the police were increasing security deployments ahead of the polls, while the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, had directed the immediate distribution of operational equipment and logistics to strengthen preparedness.
The assurance comes amid renewed concerns about the safety of corps members following two abduction incidents involving prospective and serving corps members.
In November 2026, nine corps members and a commercial driver were reportedly abducted along the Ijebu-Ode–Ibadan road in Ogun State. Another incident occurred on October 1, when 20 prospective corps members were kidnapped along the Owerri–Onitsha road in Imo State. The latter case has since proceeded to court.
Corps members constitute a significant part of INEC’s temporary workforce during elections, often serving in different capacities at polling units and supporting the commission’s electoral operations. Their involvement makes their protection an important consideration in preparations for the 2027 polls.
Beyond the security pledge, Iniedu warned politicians, political parties and their supporters against hate speech, incitement and other forms of political violence capable of undermining the electoral process.
He disclosed that the police had documented about 11 reported cases of hate speech and that the Inspector-General had directed Commissioners of Police to ensure the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in such offences.
The spokesman added that complaint channels had been established to enable members of the public to report Commissioners of Police who fail to take appropriate action against electoral offences.
He reiterated that the safety of corps members and other young Nigerians participating in the democratic process remained a priority for the Force.
The police assurance forms part of wider preparations for the 2027 general elections, as security agencies work to address potential threats and create a safer environment for voters, electoral officials and temporary election workers.
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