Osun police arrest officer after accidental tear gas discharge causes election panic

The Osun State Police Command has apprehended an officer following an accidental tear gas discharge that caused panic during Saturday's governorship election in Modakeke, Ife East Local Government Area. Viral social media videos showed a chaotic scene, with onlookers expressing anger and alleging unprovoked firing at a polling site.

“

The Command wishes to clarify that the incident did not take place at any polling unit. It occurred at the Registration Area Centre (RAC) and was the result of negligence on the part of an officer who was attempting to ease himself.

In an official statement on X, the Command refuted claims that police operatives deliberately targeted voters to disrupt the election. They clarified that the incident occurred at the Registration Area Centre (RAC), not a voting center, and attributed it to "negligence on the part of an officer who was attempting to ease himself." The police strongly condemned the action, stating it falls "far below the standard expected of an officer of the Nigeria Police Force."

“

This conduct is highly condemnable and falls far below the standard expected of an officer of the Nigeria Police Force.

The officer involved has been taken into custody, and formal disciplinary proceedings have begun. A thorough investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances and any potential ulterior motives. The police reiterated their commitment to electoral integrity and security, emphasizing that security personnel are prohibited from carrying arms or tactical gear near voting points.

“

The officer involved has been immediately apprehended. A thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the incident and to establish whether there were any other motives behind the action.

The Command apologized to affected residents and election observers, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining a peaceful environment throughout the voting and collation processes. The officer will face appropriate disciplinary action in line with Force regulations. The statement concluded by assuring the public of the Nigeria Police Force Osun State Command's resolve to protect the electoral process and ensure the safety of all participants.

“

The officer concerned will face appropriate disciplinary action in line with the Force’s regulations.