By our Reporter
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reiterated its ban on the participation of Amotekun and other non-state security actors in security operations for the Osun State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The Force, in a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said only security agencies recognised and established under the Constitution and laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties alongside the police during the election.
The police warned non-state security groups, vigilante organisations and other unauthorised bodies against assuming or exercising the functions of recognised security agencies.
It directed such groups to stay away from election-related security operations and refrain from activities capable of intimidating voters, disrupting the electoral process or undermining public peace and security.
As part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly election, 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, 2026.
The Force urged residents to comply with the movement restriction and cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state, noting that only persons and categories of movement specifically exempted by the appropriate authorities would be permitted during the period.
Political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders were also advised to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly and avoid actions capable of triggering violence or disrupting the electoral process.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and security and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors and eligible voters throughout the election.
The Force further urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative, while promptly reporting suspicious or unlawful activities to constitutionally and legally recognised security agencies.
