By Ogungbayi Adeyemi S. | adeyemi@ddnewsonline.com
Editor, DDNews |
DDNewsOnline – Lagos, August 12, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), vigilance groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community-based security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits have no role to play in the Osun governorship election billed for August 15.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ani Iniedu, force spokesperson, warned political parties, candidates, supporters and residents against electoral violence ahead of the poll.
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Iniedu said anyone who attempts to disrupt the election through violence, intimidation and thuggery will face the full weight of the law.
He said recurring electoral offences such as ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote-buying and clashes between rival supporters would not be tolerated.
He said anyone involved in such offences as a direct perpetrator or sponsor would be arrested and prosecuted regardless of political affiliation or status.
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Iniedu cautioned political parties, candidates and the public against engaging unauthorised security outfits for election-related purposes.
“Political parties, candidates, and the public are warned against engaging, arming, or deploying any non-state security outfit for election-related purposes,” the statement reads.
“Any member or sponsor of such unauthorised outfits will be arrested and dealt with according to the law.
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“The NPF reiterates that all firearms, dangerous weapons, and offensive materials are strictly prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.”
The spokesperson said the security groups are barred from escorting election materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or bearing arms during the election.
The police said election security would be handled by the NPF, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS) and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
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The spokesperson said firearms, dangerous weapons and offensive materials are prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully wielded by accredited security personnel.
He added that persons found guilty of any electoral offences, unlawful possession of election materials, and incitement to violence would be arrested and charged.
By Ogungbayi Adeyemi S. (Beedee)
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