The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, says that the Western Nigeria Security Network, otherwise known as Amotekun, vigilante groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force (CJTF), hunters’ associations, community-based security groups, neighbourhood watch outfits and other non-state or quasi-security formations were not authorised to participate in election security.
Disu issued in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Wednesday, made it clear that such groups are prohibited from escorting electoral materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or bearing arms in connection with the election.
The IGP pointed out that election security remained the responsibility of constitutionally recognised security agencies, including 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.
He also warned political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders against acts capable of disrupting the peaceful conduct of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The IGP said anyone who attempted to disrupt the electoral process through violence, intimidation or thuggery would face the full weight of the law.
Disu said recurring electoral offences, including ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote-buying and clashes between rival supporters, would not be tolerated during the election.
He vowed that anyone involved in such offences, either as a direct perpetrator or sponsor, would be arrested and prosecuted, irrespective of political affiliation or status.
The IGP also warned Political parties, candidates and members of the public against engaging, arming or deploying unauthorised security outfits for election-related activities.
He disclosed that the joint security deployment would cover all 30 Local Government Areas of Osun State, with personnel assigned to secure polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, officials, observers, journalists and voters.
The police said any member or sponsor of such groups found participating in the election would be arrested and dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Force also reiterated that firearms, dangerous weapons and other offensive materials were strictly prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.
It warned that persons found engaging in electoral offences, including thuggery, obstruction of electoral officials, unlawful possession of electoral materials, hate speech and incitement to violence, would be arrested and prosecuted.
Disu directed all commanders and personnel deployed for the election to remain professional, impartial and firm while operating within the rule of law and respecting human rights.
He urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, journalists, accredited observers and members of the public to report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest security agency or established emergency channels.
The IGP, however, assured the people of Osun State, the Independent National Electoral Commission, political parties, candidates and other stakeholders of its commitment to providing a secure environment where eligible voters could freely exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.
According to him, the police would remain neutral, professional and resolute, while no individual or group would be allowed to undermine the peaceful conduct of the Osun State governorship election.
