The Plateau State Commissioner of Police,  Ayodeji Faniyan, has advised youths in the state to shun political thuggery, eschew violence, and embrace peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The CP gave the advice at an event organised by the police command on Saturday in Jos.

The event commemorated the 2026 International Youth Day, with the theme “Different Context, Common Aspirations.”

Mr Faniyan, who said that youths remain central to the success of democracy and national development, admonished them to resist being used as instruments of violence by politicians.

“Your future is too important to be traded for peanuts during elections.

“I urge you to shun political thuggery and all forms of criminality.

“The police will not spare anyone caught disrupting the peace of Plateau,” he said.

Mr Faniyan noted that the command was committed to engaging youths through dialogue and community policing, adding that a peaceful youth population was key to credible elections and sustainable development.

Victor Elias, the area commander, Jos Metro, also urged young people to promote peaceful coexistence in their communities.

He also cautioned youths against misusing social media.

“Use your social media platforms to educate, to inform and to unite people.

“Do not use social media to spread misinformation or hate speech that can divide us,” he said.

(NAN)