The Nigeria Police Force has stopped the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, vigilante groups, neighborhood watch, and other quasi-security outfits from participating in security operations during the Osun State governorship election.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 11, which covers Osun, Oyo and Ondo States, gave the order ahead of the August 16, 2026 governorship poll.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ojedele Olanrewaju Tunji, he explained that the decision was to ensure law and order and protect the integrity of the electoral process.
Only constitutionally recognized security agencies will be responsible for election security before, during and after the poll, the statement said.
“As part of efforts to maintain law and order throughout the election period, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other constitutionally recognized security agencies, will be solely responsible for the provision of security before, during, and after the election,” the statement added.
The AIG stressed that all security personnel deployed for the election must be properly identified and must wear approved official uniforms.
He declared that the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), Vigilante Groups, Quasi-Security Outfits, Political Organizations, Neighborhood Watch Groups, and any other unauthorized body are not eligible to perform security functions, provide crowd control, or interfere with the electoral process.
He warned: “Any individual or group found engaging in unauthorized security activities or attempting to intimidate voters, electoral officials, or other stakeholders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
The AIG further appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters and the general public to remain peaceful and cooperate with police officers and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
He implored citizens to report any suspicious movement, acts of violence, voter intimidation, or breach of peace to the nearest police station or other authorized security agency.
He expressed committed to ensuring the protection of lives and property, safeguarding the electoral process, and providing a secure environment that will enable eligible voters to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.
