Osun Police Assure Journalists, Election Observers of Adequate Security Ahead of Governorship Poll

The Osun State Police Command has assured journalists, election observers and other accredited stakeholders of adequate security during the August 15 governorship election, urging them to always carry their accreditation tags while performing their duties.

The assurance was given by the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Abiodun Ojelabi, who represented the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, at the Osun Citizens’ Town Hall Meeting held in Osogbo ahead of the election.

Speaking at the meeting, Ojelabi said the command had concluded arrangements to deploy security personnel across the state to ensure a peaceful, free and credible electoral process.

He advised journalists and election observers to wear their accreditation tags at all times to enable security operatives easily identify them at polling units and other election-related locations.

According to him, accredited media professionals and election observers have the right to seek security assistance while carrying out their assignments. He added that security personnel would also provide protection to accredited stakeholders moving in groups, even without a formal request.

“once you have been accredited, you have your tag you have right to request for security coverage even without you requesting we will provide for you if you are moving in group. once you have you have your tag and you are accredited be it journalist, observers or civil societal organization once you have these requirements it is our duty to provide security for you” he said.

During the interactive session, participants expressed concern over the safety of voters, journalists and election officials, asking what measures had been put in place to prevent violence before, during and after the election.

Responding to the concerns, Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, assured residents that adequate security arrangements had been made and that security agencies were fully prepared to respond swiftly to any threat capable of disrupting the election.

Some participants also raised concerns about politicians and their supporters allegedly carrying weapons during campaign activities, urging security agencies to arrest anyone found with illegal firearms to prevent election-related violence.

Reaffirming the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, Ojelabi said police officers would remain professional, impartial and committed to protecting lives and property throughout the election period.