DistantNews
Support us
Osun Election: Police ban non-state actors, restrict movement
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Elections & Politics

Osun Election: Police ban non-state actors, restrict movement

From Vanguard · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its ban on non-state security groups, including Amotekun, participating in the Osun State governorship election.
  • A movement restriction will be in place across the state from midnight Friday to 6 p.m. Saturday to ensure orderly conduct.
  • The police urged compliance with the restrictions and warned political actors against actions that could incite violence.

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has firmly reiterated its prohibition on the involvement of Amotekun and other non-state security organizations in the security operations for the upcoming Osun State governorship election. This measure is part of the broader effort to guarantee a peaceful and orderly electoral process.

In addition to barring auxiliary security groups, the NPF announced a statewide restriction on movement. This restriction is scheduled to commence at midnight on Friday and will remain in effect until 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 15. The police emphasized that only security agencies constitutionally recognized and established under Nigerian law are authorized to perform security and law-enforcement duties during the election period, working alongside the NPF.

The Force emphasises that only security agencies recognised and established under the Constitution and laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties alongside the Nigeria Police Force in connection with the election.

— CSP Aniete InieduThe Force Public Relations Officer clarified which security entities are permitted to operate during the election.

CSP Aniete Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, stressed that no unauthorized bodies are permitted to assume or exercise the functions of recognized security agencies. Such groups have been directed to stay clear of election-related security operations and refrain from any activities that could intimidate voters, disrupt the electoral process, or threaten public peace and security.

The police also issued a warning to political parties, candidates, and their supporters, urging them to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions that could lead to violence or electoral disruption. Residents are advised to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activities to the legally recognized security agencies. The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and providing a level playing field for all participants in the election.

No non-state security group, vigilante organisation or other unauthorised body is permitted to assume or exercise the functions of a recognised security agency.

— CSP Aniete InieduThe police spokesman explicitly stated the prohibition of non-state actors performing security duties.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog