The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has urged journalists to strengthen fact-checking and responsible reporting ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that fake news and unverified reports could trigger panic, discourage voter participation and undermine confidence in the electoral process.
Disu made the call on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the 3rd Annual Conference and Awards of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN), held under the theme, “Navigating Security Challenges in the 2027 Election: The Role of the Media in Combating Fake News.”
The police chief stressed that preparations for credible elections must go beyond operational security to include effective and reliable public communication.
He warned that fabricated reports, recycled videos and unverified claims could heighten tensions, provoke panic and threaten peaceful electoral participation.
He consequently urged journalists to verify sensitive information and clearly distinguish established facts from allegations before publishing reports, particularly on security and election-related matters.
Disu also outlined measures being implemented by the Nigeria Police Force to tackle deliberate misinformation and online incitement.
These include online monitoring through the National Cybercrime Centre, expansion of cybercrime investigation capacity within Criminal Investigation Departments across the country, digital forensic investigations and prompt, evidence-based public communication.
He explained that the measures were designed to protect public safety and not to suppress legitimate criticism or responsible journalism.
Describing crime correspondents as important partners in public safety and accountability, the IGP called on journalists to report the achievements and shortcomings of the Police accurately and fairly.
He maintained that independent media scrutiny strengthens institutional accountability, adding that a free and responsible press remains essential to credible elections.
Earlier, the Chairman of CCAN, Festus Ejiroghene Fifen, called for stronger collaboration between the Police and the media before the 2027 elections.
Fifen advocated the involvement of journalists in scenario-building exercises and election-security simulations to improve preparedness and strengthen information management during electoral crises.
He also urged crime reporters to embrace conflict-sensitive journalism and called for improved welfare for journalists, alongside specialised training in fact-checking, digital forensics and crisis reporting.
The CCAN chairman further commended the IGP for his support for the association and its activities.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to strengthening election preparedness, promoting transparent communication and sustaining constructive engagement with the media to safeguard the electoral process and the security of Nigerians.
