The Nigeria Police Force says about 15,000 personnel will be deployed for the August 15 Osun governorship election as authorities move to prevent electoral violence and malpractice.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the deployment of about 15,000 personnel for the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of election security, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, disclosed this on Wednesday while addressing journalists and Divisional Police Officers in Osogbo.
Police Promise Tight Security
The deployment will include Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Police Mobile Force personnel and other specialised units.
Etaifo said the objective was to provide security before, during and after the election and create an environment where voters can participate without fear or intimidation.
The police commissioner warned politicians, electoral officials and security personnel against attempts to compromise the process.
He specifically listed vote buying, ballot snatching, violence, voter intimidation and other forms of electoral malpractice among offences that would attract action.
Electoral Offenders Face Investigation in Abuja
The police also announced that suspects arrested for serious electoral offences would be transferred out of Osun State to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for further investigation and prosecution.
Etaifo said the measure was intended to prevent interference with investigations and ensure that those accused of electoral offences face due process.
He further warned police officers deployed for the election against collusion with political actors, stressing that personnel who compromise the process would face disciplinary action.
Police Promise Neutrality
According to the election security commissioner, the police would provide a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.
He said the early deployment was also intended to increase public confidence and encourage voter turnout.
Residents were urged to remain peaceful, cooperate with security agencies and report suspicious activities ahead of the election.