Police warn Katsina politicians against sponsoring political thuggery
The Katsina State Police Command has issued a stern warning to politicians about the recruitment or sponsorship of youths for political violence. The Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Fage, emphasized that individuals engaged in such activities will face arrest and prosecution, regardless of their political affiliations.
Fage delivered this message on Thursday during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration at the command headquarters in Katsina. He was represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police Aminu Gusau, who oversees Finance and Administration.
The police chief stated that the command would take a hard stance against electoral violence, cybercrime, and other criminal behaviors. He noted that police intelligence units are actively monitoring social media platforms to combat hate speech, misinformation, and cyber-harassment.
Fage warned that those participating in online incitement and cybercrimes would be prosecuted under the Cybercrimes Prohibition Act and other applicable laws. He urged young people not to allow themselves to be manipulated by politicians into engaging in violence, highlighting that those who recruit youths for thuggery often protect their own children from such activities.
“Political thuggery is not employment; it is structured self-sabotage. Do not trade your future for temporary political patronage,” Fage said.
In an effort to discourage electoral violence and exploitative practices, the command launched a campaign titled “My Future Is Greater Than Political Thuggery,” aimed at raising awareness ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Fage also addressed concerns regarding what he termed “digital thuggery,” which includes online attacks, hate speech, and the dissemination of false information. He encouraged youths to verify information before sharing it online and to leverage technology for innovation and national development.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of peaceful elections for meeting the aspirations of young Nigerians, which include improved job opportunities, education, security, infrastructure, and technological advancement.
Additionally, the command introduced a Police-Youth Dialogue Forum to promote discussions between police officers and young residents on security issues, crime prevention, public trust, responsible citizenship, and community policing.
The event attracted government officials, members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, religious leaders, and other stakeholders.
