The Nigeria Police Force is tightening security ahead of the Osun governorship election, with thousands of officers set for deployment.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu said at least four officers would be stationed at each polling unit across the state. With more than 3,000 polling units involved, the move is aimed at protecting voters and preventing election violence.
Disu announced the plan during a meeting with civil society groups focused on Osun election security. He assured residents that police officers would provide security before, during and after the election.
However, the IGP raised concerns about politicians trying to discover where senior police officers would be posted.
“We have noticed politicians making frantic efforts to identify the senior officers that will be deployed to each local government area for reasons best known to them. Even though I have approved the list of senior officers to be deployed, it will not be released until the day of the election to ensure a free, fair and credible exercise,” Disu said.
The police chief said an Assistant Inspector-General would also be deployed to strengthen security arrangements.
He noted that cult activities and political rivalry had contributed to violence in parts of Osun.
“We have issues of cultism in Osun already. It became easier for different parties to attack each other using the existing animosity in the state,” he said.
Disu warned politicians against using thugs and urged officers to remain professional throughout the election.
“Let the elections go freely. Do not deploy thugs. If they do not deploy thugs, there will be no problems with the election. But we will ensure security, free and fair election,” he said.
Yiaga Africa identified 13 local government areas as high-risk areas because of previous violence.
Executive Director Samson Itodo called the election a “litmus test” for rebuilding public confidence.
The police said Osun election security remains a priority as authorities prepare for the final off-cycle poll before 2027.
