The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, has warned political parties and candidates against recruiting or using thugs, cult members and other criminal elements during political campaigns.

Nwadiogbu gave the warning on Wednesday at a peace accord signing ceremony held at the state police headquarters in Makurdi, attended by political party chairmen, candidates, representatives of sister security agencies and other stakeholders.

The commissioner urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that their supporters conducted themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the electoral process.

He specifically warned against the use of political thugs and cult groups to intimidate opponents or disrupt lawful political activities.

The peace accord was subsequently signed by participating political parties and candidates, signifying their commitment to rejecting political violence, respecting the rights of other political actors and cooperating with security agencies to maintain peace.

Nwadiogbu assured all parties and candidates that the police command would remain professional and impartial while providing adequate security for lawful political activities.

He also urged political stakeholders to maintain communication with the police and other security agencies, particularly ahead of rallies, campaigns and other major political events.

The commissioner called on political leaders, candidates, supporters and members of the public to uphold the spirit of the peace accord and work collectively towards peaceful and credible political activities in Benue State.

The participating stakeholders also reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful campaigns, respect for the rule of law and protection of lives and property throughout the electoral period.