By joshua “Your Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery” — Kogi CP Tells Youth on International Youth Day 2026
The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, PSC, MNI*, has charged young people in the st date to reject political violencefrrreeeeee, misinformation and online abuse, saying their future is too valuable to be wasted.
CP Kankarofi gave the charge on Tuesday during the Kogi State Police Command’s commemoration of *International Youth Day 2026*, held in Lokoja.
The event was themed _“Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”_ with the campaign slogan _“My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery.”_
Speaking to youth leaders, student bodies, religious leaders, senior police officers and members of the media, the CP said the theme reflects the shared aspirations of young people across backgrounds — peace, security, opportunity, dignity and a better future.
“Young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; you are important partners in building the safer society we desire today,” Kankarofi stated. “Your energy, creativity and influence in the digital space can either contribute to peace and development or be exploited to create division and violence.”
He described the Youth Campaign Walk and the Police–Youth Dialogue held as part of the event as platforms to build trust, address concerns, and identify practical ways to prevent crime in communities.
The CP urged youths to use social media responsibly.
“Do not allow yourselves to become instruments for spreading false information, inciting violence or promoting hatred. Verify information before sharing it, disagree without violence, and remember that what is posted online can have real consequences offline,” he said.
With elections approaching, CP Kankarofi also cautioned young people against being used as tools for political thuggery.
“No political ambition is worth your life, your freedom or your future. Participate peacefully, exercise your civic rights responsibly and hold firmly to the belief that your future is indeed greater than political and digital thuggery,” he added.
He reassured that the Kogi State Police Command remains committed to open communication with young people and to working with youth organisations, student bodies, civil society and other stakeholders to strengthen security in the state.
The Commissioner commended the Inspector-General of Police, *IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM*, for his leadership in promoting community-oriented policing and youth engagement across the country.
The event featured a solidarity walk by youths across Lokoja and an interactive dialogue session between police officers and youth representatives.