Police Warn Against Violence, Deploy Security Agencies for Osun Governorship Election

The Nigeria Police Force has warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against violence, vote buying and other electoral offences ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday.

In a statement Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu said anyone involved in ballot snatching, voter intimidation, thuggery, vote buying or clashes between supporters would be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation.

The police said the warning also applies to individuals or groups sponsoring electoral violence.

The Force said only constitutionally recognised security agencies are authorised to provide security for the election, warning non-state groups against taking part in election security operations.

It specifically barred the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, vigilante groups, hunters’ associations, community-based security outfits, neighbourhood watch groups and other quasi-security formations from escorting election materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or carrying arms during the election.

The police said the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps and other statutory agencies will jointly provide security across all 30 local government areas of the state.

The deployment will cover polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, election officials, accredited observers, journalists and voters, the Force said.

Political parties, candidates and members of the public were also warned against carrying or deploying firearms, dangerous weapons or offensive materials around polling units and collation centres, except where such weapons are lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.

The police said those found obstructing electoral officials, unlawfully possessing election materials, engaging in hate speech or inciting violence would be arrested and prosecuted.

The Force said personnel deployed for the election had been directed to remain professional, impartial and firm while respecting human rights and the rule of law.

It urged traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, the media, observers and residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies.

The police assured Osun voters and other stakeholders that it would remain neutral and work to ensure that eligible voters can cast their ballots freely and without intimidation.