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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has banned the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, from providing election security in Osun and warned political parties, candidates and supporters against violence ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The police said offences including ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying, thuggery and clashes between rival supporters would not be tolerated.
It warned that both perpetrators and sponsors of electoral violence would be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of their political affiliation or status.
The Force also clarified that only constitutionally recognised security agencies would be responsible for election security in the state.
It specifically warned that the Amotekun, vigilante groups, hunters’ associations, community security groups, neighbourhood watch outfits and other non-state security formations must not participate in election security.
According to the police, such groups are prohibited from escorting electoral materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or carrying weapons during the election.
The authorised agencies include: the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service and Nigeria Road Safety Corps, alongside other statutory agencies.
The joint security operation will cover all 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State, including polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, officials, observers, journalists and voters.
The police further warned that firearms, dangerous weapons and other offensive materials would not be allowed around polling units and collation centres, except where lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.
It said anyone involved in thuggery, obstruction of electoral officials, unlawful possession of electoral materials, hate speech or incitement to violence would be arrested and charged in court.
The Force directed personnel deployed for the election to remain professional, impartial and firm while respecting human rights and the rule of law.
It also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, journalists and voters to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police assured Osun residents and other stakeholders that it would remain neutral and work to ensure that eligible voters can cast their ballots freely and without intimidation.
NIGERIA POLICE FORCE WARNS AGAINST ELECTORAL VIOLENCE, ANNOUNCES SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS FOR OSUN STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, warns political parties,… pic.twitter.com/45SrbCzZSP
— Nigeria Police Force (@PoliceNG) August 12, 2026
