Police Ban Amotekun, Other Non-State Actors From Osun Election Security

The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its ban on the participation of Amotekun and other non-state security groups in security operations for the Osun State Governorship Election.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, stated this in a statement issued on Friday August 14, ahead of Saturday’s election.

The police said only security agencies recognised and established under the Constitution and laws of Nigeria are authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties alongside the Nigeria Police Force during the election.

The Force warned vigilante groups, non-state security organisations and other unauthorised bodies against participating in election-related security operations.

It said such groups must stay away from election duties and avoid activities capable of intimidating voters, disrupting the electoral process or threatening public peace.

The police also announced a restriction of movement across Osun State from 12:00 midnight on Friday, August 14, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly election.

Members of the public were urged to comply with the restriction and cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state. Only persons and categories of movement specifically exempted by the appropriate authorities will be allowed during the period.

The police further urged political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly and refrain from actions capable of causing violence or disrupting the electoral process.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace, security and a level playing field for all political actors and eligible voters throughout the election.

It also urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding and promptly report suspicious or unlawful activities to constitutionally recognised security agencies.