OSUN STATE — The Nigeria Police Force has excluded Amotekun, local vigilante groups, hunters’ associations, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and neighbourhood watch organisations from participating in security operations for the upcoming Osun State governorship election.
The directive was issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
According to the police, the affected groups are prohibited from performing election-related security duties, including escorting electoral materials, manning polling units or checkpoints, and carrying weapons in connection with the election.
The police warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against violence, intimidation, vote buying, ballot-box snatching and thuggery, stressing that anyone involved in such offences would be arrested and prosecuted.
Security Agencies Authorised for the Election
The police said election security will be handled by officially authorised agencies, including:
- Nigeria Police Force
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Nigeria Immigration Service
- Nigeria Correctional Service
- Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
These agencies will provide security at polling units, collation centres and other critical election locations across Osun State’s 30 Local Government Areas.
The police also warned political parties and individuals against recruiting, arming or engaging unauthorised security groups for election duties.
Weapons and other offensive materials are also prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except where legally carried by accredited security personnel on official duty.
The IGP directed officers deployed for the election to remain professional, impartial and firm, while respecting the rule of law and fundamental human rights.
The police further called on traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, journalists and accredited observers to report suspicious activities to the appropriate security authorities.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring a secure environment for voters, electoral officials and other stakeholders during the Osun governorship election.
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