2027 elections: Kano police warn against fake news, boast of robust security

The Kano State Police Command has assured residents of adequate security before, during and after the 2027 general elections, while urging information officers to help prevent the spread of fake news and misleading reports that could trigger violence.The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, gave the assurance on Saturday, October 17, 2026, during the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kano State Chapter, held at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano.Bakori attended the event as the Special Guest of Honour. The meeting focused on the theme, “Managing Election Results: The Role of Information Officers.”Speaking at the gathering, the police commissioner thanked the NIPR leadership in Kano for promoting professionalism, ethical conduct and excellence in public relations. He described the theme as relevant to preparations for the 2027 general elections.In a statement issued by CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Kano State Police Command's Public Relations Officer, the commissioner said elections require continuous attention to security and information management, stressing that the way information is handled can influence public confidence and the conduct of the electoral process.“Mismanaged information breeds rumour, incites violence and undermines public trust. Well-managed information, on the other hand, builds confidence, promotes peace and strengthens democracy,” Bakori said.The commissioner explained that information officers have responsibilities beyond issuing statements and sharing official announcements. According to him, they play a crucial role in verifying information, shaping public understanding and preventing the spread of misinformation and disinformation, particularly while election results are being awaited, collated or announced.On security preparations, Bakori said the command would implement comprehensive measures in line with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu's vision of a professional, intelligence-driven and people-oriented police force.He disclosed that the command had begun engaging relevant stakeholders and conducting training and public awareness programmes involving youth groups, political actors and media practitioners.The police command is also maintaining intelligence-led operations and cooperation with other security agencies to address threats such as hate speech, political thuggery, fake news and other forms of communication capable of disrupting public peace.Bakori urged information officers to adopt clear ethical standards when reporting election results, emphasising the need to prioritise accuracy over speed, responsibility over sensationalism, and the national interest over personal or political considerations.Earlier, Prof. Sule Yau Sule, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of professionalism, ethical communication and national interest in managing election-related information.2027 elections: Kano police warn against fake news, boast of robust security