The Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has warned young people against allowing politicians and criminal elements to use them for political thuggery and cybercrime. He issued the caution on Thursday during an event marking the 2026 International Youth Day.

The programme, organised by the Bauchi State Police Command, carried the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations” and the slogan “My Future Is Greater Than Political Thuggery.” It featured a campaign against political and digital thuggery as well as a dialogue with youths on leadership and security. Aliyu said the initiative reflected the police commitment to engaging young people and protecting them from exploitation. He described youths as innovators, entrepreneurs and the leaders of tomorrow, while noting that some individuals in both physical and digital spaces were exploiting their vulnerabilities. The commissioner said the campaign would educate young people on the dangers of political and digital thuggery, help them recognise their potential, and encourage them to become partners in community safety. He stressed that the security of the state and the future of its youths was a shared responsibility involving parents, teachers, religious leaders and the young people themselves. Assistant Commissioner of Police Muhammad Ahmadu also spoke at the event, warning youths against accepting money from politicians for electoral violence or engaging in cybercrime such as identity theft and online fraud. He urged them to pursue education, skills acquisition and legitimate businesses instead of seeking quick wealth through crime.