The Nigeria Police Force has barred non-state security groups, including the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, local vigilantes and community-based security organisations, from participating in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
Other groups excluded include the Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations and neighbourhood watch organisations.
The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Ani Iniedu, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
According to the police, the unauthorised groups are prohibited from performing any election-related security duties, including escorting electoral materials, providing security at polling units, establishing checkpoints or carrying weapons in connection with the election.
The Force also warned political parties, candidates, supporters and members of the public against violence, intimidation and thuggery before and during the poll.
It said offences such as ballot-box snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying and clashes between supporters would be dealt with decisively.
The police said both those who physically commit electoral offences and individuals who finance or organise them would be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of their political affiliations or status.
The Force identified the agencies authorised to provide security for the election as the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service and Federal Road Safety Corps.
The agencies are expected to secure polling units, collation centres, electoral materials and officials, as well as accredited observers, journalists and voters across Osun State’s 30 local government areas.
The police also warned political parties and candidates against recruiting, arming or otherwise engaging security groups not officially authorised to participate in election duties.
“Any member or sponsor of such unauthorised outfits will be arrested and dealt with according to the law,” the statement said.
The Force reiterated that weapons, dangerous objects and other offensive materials are prohibited around polling units and collation centres, except where they are lawfully carried by accredited security personnel performing official duties.
It said anyone found engaging in thuggery, obstructing electoral officials, illegally possessing election materials, or making hate speech and inciting violence would be arrested and prosecuted.
The Inspector-General directed police commanders and officers deployed for the election to maintain professionalism, impartiality and firmness while respecting the rule of law and human rights.
The Force also appealed to traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, journalists and accredited election observers to report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency or emergency response channel.
The police said they remained committed to neutrality and professionalism and would work to ensure a safe and secure environment for voters and other stakeholders throughout the governorship election.
