Police Deploy 15,000 Officers for Osun Election Security

The Nigeria Police Force has warned politicians, security officers and electoral officials against attempts to interfere with the Osun governorship election scheduled for August 15. The police said anyone arrested for major electoral offences would be moved to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police responsible for election security in Osun State, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, issued the warning on Wednesday while speaking with journalists and Divisional Police Officers at the Police Officers’ Mess in Osogbo.

Etaifo announced that about 15,000 security personnel would be deployed across the state to protect the election process. The deployment will include Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs), Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives and other specialised units.

He described the Osun governorship election as a federal electoral assignment and said suspects involved in electoral offences would be taken outside the state to prevent interference with investigations.

He stated, “This governorship election is a federal election. Anyone arrested for electoral offences will be taken out of Osun State to the Force Headquarters for further investigation and prosecution. There will be no room for interference.”

The police commissioner also warned political actors, electoral officials and security personnel against actions that could damage the credibility of the election. He specifically mentioned vote buying, ballot snatching, violence, voter intimidation and other forms of electoral malpractice as offences that would not be tolerated.

He said, “I want to warn all political actors, security personnel and even INEC officials not to manipulate the election. Anyone found violating the Electoral Act or attempting to undermine the credibility of the process will be held accountable.”

Etaifo said the Inspector-General of Police assigned him to coordinate security operations and promote peace across Osun ahead of the poll. He added that he had already met with Governor Ademola Adeleke to explain the security plans and assure the state government of the police commitment to a peaceful election.

According to him, the early deployment of officers aims to increase public confidence, reduce fear and encourage voter participation. He said, “We cannot have a hostile atmosphere and expect to conduct a free and fair election. The early arrival of police personnel is to boost the confidence of the people of Osun State and discourage voter apathy.”

The police chief promised neutrality and professionalism, saying all candidates and political parties would receive equal protection. He stated, “Our duty is to guarantee a level playing field for every political actor. Gone are the days when the police were alleged to be partisan. Every political party must have equal opportunity to campaign and participate in the election without intimidation or harassment.”

Etaifo also warned officers assigned to election duties against working with politicians or compromising their responsibilities. He said any officer found guilty would face disciplinary measures.

He encouraged residents to obey the law, cooperate with security agencies and report suspicious activities, assuring citizens that preparations were complete for a peaceful, free and credible Osun governorship election.

Do you think these security measures will improve confidence in the Osun election process?