By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has barred Amotekun, vigilante groups, hunters, the Joint Civilian Task Force (CJTF), neighbourhood watch outfits and other community-based security groups from participating in security operations during Saturday’s Osun State governorship election. The directive, issued in Abuja by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aims to ensure a peaceful, lawful and credible election across the state’s 30 local government areas.
Police Restrict Election Security to Authorised Agencies
The Police said only constitutionally recognised security agencies would handle election duties in Osun State.
According to the Force, non-state and quasi-security formations cannot escort electoral materials, guard polling units, mount checkpoints or carry arms during the election.
Authorised agencies include:
- Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)
- Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS)
- Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
The joint deployment will secure polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, election officials, journalists, observers and voters across all 30 local government areas.
IGP Orders Professional and Neutral Conduct
The Inspector-General directed all commanders and deployed personnel to remain professional, impartial and firm throughout the election.
He stressed that officers must operate within the rule of law while respecting human rights.
Furthermore, the Force pledged to remain neutral and resolute, adding that it would not allow any individual or group to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the governorship poll.
Police Warn Against Electoral Violence and Vote Buying
The Police issued a strong warning to political parties, candidates and their supporters against violence, intimidation and thuggery.
The Force said it would not tolerate recurring electoral offences, including:
- Ballot snatching
- Voter intimidation
- Vote buying
- Clashes between rival supporters
- Hate speech and incitement to violence
It added that anyone involved, either as a perpetrator or sponsor, would face arrest and prosecution regardless of political affiliation or social status.
Firearms Prohibited Around Polling Units
The Police also reminded residents that firearms, dangerous weapons and other offensive materials remain prohibited around polling units and collation centres.
Only accredited security personnel on official election duty may lawfully carry firearms in designated areas.
In addition, the Force warned political parties and candidates against engaging or sponsoring unauthorised security outfits for election-related activities.
“Any member or sponsor of such unauthorised outfits will be arrested and dealt with according to the law,” the Police stated.
Residents Asked to Report Suspicious Activities
The Police urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and accredited observers to support peaceful elections by reporting suspicious movements or activities.
Residents should contact the nearest security agency or use established emergency channels whenever they notice potential threats.
The Force assured the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, candidates and Osun residents that it would provide a secure environment for eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
