The Kogi Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, has urged youths to reject political violence, digital thuggery, misinformation and criminality.

Mr Kankarofi made the call on Saturday while delivering his welcome address at the command’s commemoration of International Youth Day 2026.

The event was held under the theme, ‘Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,’ with ‘My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery’ as the campaign theme.

He said the theme highlighted young people’s shared aspirations, regardless of their backgrounds, including peace, security, opportunities, dignity, and a better future.

The commissioner described youths as critical partners in building a safer society, saying their energy, creativity, and digital influence could promote peace.

He, however, warned that these qualities could also be exploited to create division and violence if deployed irresponsibly.

Mr Kankarofi said the command’s Youth Campaign Walk and Police-Youth Dialogue were designed to strengthen trust and improve communication.

He added that the initiatives would provide platforms for youths and the police to jointly identify practical solutions to security challenges.

The commissioner cautioned youths against the irresponsible use of social media, urging them to verify information before sharing it and to avoid inciting violence and hatred.

He stressed that actions taken online could have serious consequences in the real world, urging youths to exercise caution.

Ahead of future electoral activities, Mr Kankarofi urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence.

“No political ambition is worth sacrificing your lives, freedom or future,” he said.

The commissioner assured youths that the command would maintain open communication channels with youth organisations and other relevant bodies.

He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for supporting initiatives promoting meaningful engagement between the Nigeria Police Force and young people.

Mr Kankarofi said Mr Disu’s emphasis on community-oriented policing, youth engagement, and proactive crime prevention reinforced the importance of partnership and dialogue.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to a policing system where young people were heard, valued, and actively involved in creating safer communities.

The commissioner urged participants to make the dialogue meaningful and solution-oriented by choosing peace, rejecting violence, and working collectively towards a better future.

 (NAN)