The Lagos State Police Command has called on all registered political parties to notify the command before organising rallies, campaigns, processions and other political events as preparations for the 2027 general elections gain momentum.
Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai said that advance notification would allow the command to put necessary security measures in place and deploy officers to ensure the safety of participants and the public. He added that the police would provide security for all lawful political activities without favouring any group.
Fatai warned that parties that fail to notify the command or ignore established security arrangements could face legal consequences for breaching public peace. The commissioner also cautioned that the command would not condone actions capable of causing a breakdown of law and order.
The appeal follows a security meeting held on 15 October, where parties and stakeholders were advised to work with security agencies and observe safety guidelines ahead of the elections. Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2022 requires the police to provide adequate protection for the peaceful conduct of rallies and processions, guaranteeing registered parties, aspirants and candidates the right to organise lawful gatherings.
While the call for advance notification does not amount to a requirement for parties to obtain permission before organising events, existing court decisions confirm that political parties do not need police permits to hold rallies and that protesters do not require police approval to organise peaceful demonstrations.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>