Demola Olarewaju, an aide to Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) 2027 presidential candidate, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of misusing police resources by deploying officers to protect President Bola Tinubu’s campaign billboards instead of ensuring public safety. The allegation follows reports that police in Edo State have been stationed around Tinubu’s billboards along Ring Road, reportedly taking shifts to guard them from vandalism. Olarewaju condemned the move, calling it a misplaced priority that reflects a deeper political agenda focused on power over people.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Olarewaju stated that the APC would rather use law enforcement to shield campaign materials than to protect ordinary Nigerians. He emphasized that Tinubu’s approach to politics—centered on power rather than policy—must not be repeated in the upcoming 2027 elections. The aide’s remarks come amid growing public scrutiny over the allocation of security resources during election periods, especially when communities face rising insecurity and crime.
The social media post that sparked Olarewaju’s response highlighted local observations in Edo State, where residents claimed police officers were actively assigned to monitor and guard Tinubu’s billboards. These reports have fueled debate about whether security forces should be used for political campaign protection, especially when their primary duty is to maintain peace and order for all citizens. Critics argue that such deployments divert attention and manpower from critical public safety responsibilities.
Olarewaju’s comments also reflect broader concerns about the politicization of security agencies in Nigeria. Many citizens and opposition figures have long criticized the use of police and military for partisan purposes, particularly during election seasons. The ADC aide’s statement underscores the expectation that security forces should remain neutral and serve the public interest, regardless of political affiliations.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, political parties are intensifying their campaigns, and campaign materials like billboards are often targets of vandalism or destruction. However, the deployment of police to protect such materials raises ethical and practical questions about resource allocation and the role of security agencies in democratic processes. The controversy adds to the growing discourse on transparency, accountability, and the need for fair electoral practices.
The situation in Edo State has drawn attention from civil society groups and political observers who are calling for a review of how security resources are deployed during election periods. They argue that public safety should always take precedence over campaign logistics. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the debate over the role of security forces in politics is likely to intensify, shaping public opinion and influencing voter decisions across the country.
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