The Nigeria Police Force has barred Amotekun, vigilante groups and other non-state security outfits from taking part in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election. The police said the groups have no role in securing the poll. It also warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against engaging or deploying them for election duties.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, issued the warning on Wednesday on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu. The election will take place across the 30 local government areas of Osun State on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Police bar non-state security groups
According to the police, Amotekun and other non-state groups cannot take part in election security operations. The affected groups include vigilantes, the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community-based security groups and neighbourhood watch outfits. The groups cannot escort election materials or guard polling units, barred from mounting checkpoints or carrying arms during the election.
“The Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), vigilante groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force (CJTF), hunters’ associations, community-based security groups, neighbourhood watch outfits, and all other non-state or quasi-security formations have no role in election security,” the statement read.
The Force warned that it would arrest and prosecute members or sponsors of such groups.
Police warn parties against violence
Meanwhile, the police urged political parties and candidates to ensure a peaceful election.
“The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, warns political parties, candidates, supporters, and the public that the Osun State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday, 15th August, 2026, must be peaceful,” the statement said.
The Force warned against ballot snatching, voter intimidation and vote buying. It also listed clashes between rival supporters among offences that would attract prosecution.
“Any person involved in such offences, whether as a direct perpetrator or sponsor, will be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation or status,” it said.
The police also warned against thuggery and other attempts to disrupt the election.
Security agencies to protect election
The Force said constitutionally recognised security agencies would handle election security across Osun State. These include the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service and Nigeria Correctional Service.
The Federal Road Safety Corps and other statutory agencies will also support the operation. According to the police, the joint deployment will cover all 30 local government areas. Officers will protect polling units, collation centres and election materials. They will also provide security for electoral officials, observers, journalists and voters.
The Force further warned against carrying firearms or dangerous weapons around polling units and collation centres.
“All firearms, dangerous weapons, and offensive materials are strictly prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty,” the statement said.
Anyone involved in electoral offences will also face arrest and prosecution.
“Anyone found culpable of electoral offences, including thuggery, obstruction of electoral officials, unlawful possession of election materials, hate speech, or incitement to violence, will be arrested and charged to court,” it warned.
IGP orders professional conduct
The Inspector-General of Police directed commanders and officers deployed for the election to remain professional and impartial. He also ordered them to follow the law and respect human rights while carrying out their duties. In addition, the Force urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups and journalists to report suspicious activities.
“The public, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media, and accredited observers are urged to report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest security agency or established emergency channels—if you see something, say something,” the statement read.
The police assured Osun residents and other stakeholders of adequate security during the election. It also said eligible voters would have the opportunity to vote freely and without intimidation.
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