Police Warn Against Electoral Violence, Announce Security Plan For Osun Governorship Poll

The Nigeria Police Force has warned political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders against electoral violence ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday, saying anyone who attempts to disrupt the election through violence, intimidation or thuggery would face the full weight of the law.

The police said offences such as ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying and clashes between rival supporters would not be tolerated, adding that both perpetrators and sponsors would be arrested and prosecuted regardless of their political affiliation or status.

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The Force also clarified that election security was the responsibility of constitutionally recognised security agencies and warned non-state and quasi-security groups against participating in the process.

It specifically stated that the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, vigilante groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community-based security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits had no role in election security.

According to the police, such groups are prohibited from escorting election materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or bearing arms during the election.

The NPF said authorised agencies for the poll include the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service and Federal Road Safety Corps, alongside other statutory bodies.

It said the joint security deployment would cover all 30 local government areas of Osun State, with personnel securing polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, officials, observers, journalists and voters.

The police warned political parties, candidates and members of the public against engaging, arming or deploying unauthorised security outfits for election-related activities.

“Anyone who attempts to disrupt the process through violence, intimidation, or thuggery will face the full weight of the law,” the Force said.

It added that firearms, dangerous weapons and offensive materials were strictly prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except where lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.

The police further warned that persons involved in electoral offences, including thuggery, obstruction of electoral officials, unlawful possession of election materials, hate speech and incitement to violence, would be arrested and prosecuted.

The Force said commanders and personnel deployed for the election had been directed to operate professionally, impartially and firmly while respecting the rule of law and human rights.

It also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media, accredited observers and residents to report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest security agency or established emergency channels.

The police assured residents, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, candidates and other stakeholders of its commitment to providing a secure environment for eligible voters to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.

“The Police remain neutral, professional, and resolute, and will not allow any actor to undermine the peaceful conduct of the Osun State Governorship Election,” the Force said.