By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Nigeria Police Force has barred Amotekun, vigilante groups and other non-state security outfits from participating in Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The police warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against deploying, arming or engaging the groups for election-related activities.
The warning was issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on behalf of Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
The election is scheduled for August 15 across Osun State’s 30 Local Government Areas.
The police said Amotekun, the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits have no role in election security.
They are also prohibited from escorting election materials, guarding polling units, mounting checkpoints or carrying arms during the election.
The Force warned that anyone who deploys or sponsors unauthorised security groups will be arrested and prosecuted.
It said election security remains the responsibility of constitutionally recognised agencies, including the police, DSS, NSCDC, Immigration Service, Correctional Service and Federal Road Safety Corps.
The joint security deployment will cover polling units, collation centres, election materials, officials, observers, journalists and voters across the state.
The police also warned against ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying, thuggery, hate speech and clashes between rival supporters.
It said anyone involved in electoral offences, including sponsors, would be arrested and prosecuted regardless of political affiliation or status.
The Force further banned firearms, dangerous weapons and offensive materials around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel.
The IGP directed officers deployed for the election to remain professional, impartial and firm while respecting human rights and the rule of law.
The police urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, journalists and observers to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The Force assured voters that it would remain neutral and provide a secure environment for eligible citizens to vote freely and without intimidation.
