Election Politics Must Not Derail National Security, Tunji-Ojo Warns Interior Agencies

Election Politics Must Not Derail National Security, Tunji-Ojo Warns Interior Agencies

By: Michael Mike

Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has issued a stern warning to agencies under his ministry not to allow the rising political temperature ahead of the 2026 elections to weaken national security operations or disrupt essential services to Nigerians.

Speaking at the end of a three-day strategic engagement with top officials and heads of agencies in Abuja, the minister stressed that the country’s internal security architecture cannot afford distractions at a time when institutions are expected to remain professional and focused.

Tunji-Ojo said election seasons often create pressure on public institutions, but agencies responsible for border control, emergency response, asset protection and correctional management must remain insulated from political distractions.

“This is 2026, an election year. You are professionals. Please don’t be distracted. Nigerians must continue to receive the services they deserve,” he said.

The minister noted that agencies under the Ministry of Interior interact directly with millions of citizens daily and therefore carry a heavy responsibility to sustain efficiency regardless of the political climate.

He cautioned officials against becoming complacent over past successes, stressing that continuous improvement and accountability must remain central to their operations.

According to him, teamwork and institutional discipline are critical to achieving the ministry’s mandate.

“Our mantra in the Ministry of Interior is one for all and all for one. We protect one another and ensure we deliver results. This is not a system where people shift responsibility. Buck passing has no place here,” he said.

Tunji-Ojo also charged the Nigeria Immigration Service to intensify efforts to secure Nigeria’s borders and tackle irregular migration, describing effective border management as a critical component of national security.

He urged the service to strengthen collaboration with border communities and state governments while ensuring officers are properly equipped to monitor and protect Nigeria’s vast border corridors.

“We must equip our officers with the right instruments to secure every inch of our border space. Irregular immigration must be addressed decisively to protect our country,” he said.

The minister equally directed the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to strengthen surveillance and protection of critical national infrastructure, particularly facilities vulnerable to vandalism and economic sabotage.

He emphasised that safeguarding national assets such as pipelines, power installations and public utilities remains essential to economic stability.

Tunji-Ojo further urged the Federal Fire Service to scale up emergency preparedness and rescue operations nationwide, stressing that Nigerians must have confidence that help will arrive swiftly in times of distress.

He also challenged the Nigerian Correctional Service to deepen rehabilitation programmes in custodial centres to reduce repeat offences.

According to him, correctional institutions must focus on reforming inmates and preparing them for productive reintegration into society.

“When individuals leave correctional centres worse than when they entered, it reflects a failure of the system. Our duty is to reform, rehabilitate and return better citizens to society,” he said.

While commending the leadership and personnel of the agencies for improvements recorded in areas such as immigration services, border management and emergency response, the minister urged them to remain committed to professionalism and results.

He stressed that Nigerians expect stronger institutions capable of delivering security and efficient services, regardless of the country’s political cycle.

Election Politics Must Not Derail National Security, Tunji-Ojo Warns Interior Agencies