The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ishyaku Mohammed to Osun State to oversee police operations ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday.
This information was shared in a statement made available to reporters in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.
The statement explained that this deployment is part of the Nigeria Police Force’s efforts to enhance security and ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process throughout the state.
According to the statement, DIG Mohammed will coordinate the police component of the election security arrangement and collaborate with other security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
Furthermore, the statement indicated that the DIG will be supported by an Assistant Inspector-General of Police and a Commissioner of Police, who will be deployed across the state’s three senatorial districts to supervise operations, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure swift responses to any emerging security threats.
The statement also emphasized that adequate measures have been put in place to protect voters, electoral officials, election materials, polling and collation centers, as well as accredited observers and journalists before, during, and after the election.
The Inspector-General warned political parties, candidates, supporters, and other individuals against any actions that could disrupt the election. He stressed that offenses such as ballot snatching, voter intimidation, and political thuggery would result in arrests and prosecution.
Additionally, he reiterated the prohibition of armed escorts, security aides, and other unauthorized persons accompanying politicians or VIPs to polling units and collation centers on election day.
The police also warned that state-backed security outfits, quasi-security groups, and private security organizations would not be permitted to participate in election security duties.
Finally, the police urged residents and voters in Osun State to engage in the election peacefully and without fear.
The governorship election on August 15 is expected to feature 14 candidates, including the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke.