Osun poll: IG deploys 15,000 policemen, warns troublemakers

The Nigeria Police Force is deploying a substantial contingent of approximately 15,000 operatives to ensure security during the upcoming August 15 Osun governorship election. This large-scale deployment aims to maintain order and facilitate a free and fair electoral process.

Samuel Etaifo, the Commissioner of Police overseeing the election security, confirmed the figures. The operatives will comprise conventional police officers, specialists, the dog section, medical personnel, and the Police Mobile Force. A Deputy Inspector General and an Assistant Inspector General will also be present to supervise the operation. "As I speak with you, the total number of officers that will come for this election, we should be expecting nothing less than 15,000," Etaifo stated.

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As I speak with you, the total number of officers that will come for this election, we should be expecting nothing less than 15,000.

Etaifo, who was specifically deployed by the Inspector General of Police due to heightened tensions, emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and adherence to the law among the deployed personnel. He issued a stern warning against any actions that could disrupt the election, stating that anyone caught acting improperly would face full consequences, irrespective of their position. "I will be the CP in charge of the election. That is why the IGP has deployed me here," he said.

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I will be the CP in charge of the election. That is why the IGP has deployed me here.

Adding to the strict measures, the CP declared that any individual arrested for violating electoral laws during the poll would be transferred to Abuja for prosecution. This directive underscores the national significance of the election and the zero-tolerance policy towards electoral malpractice. "Arrested violators of electoral laws will be moved straight to Abuja. This election is a Federal Government election, so anybody arrested will be taken to Abuja. That’s the order," Etaifo confirmed.

The election will feature 14 candidates, including the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, vying for the governorship seat in Osun State.

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Arrested violators of electoral laws will be moved straight to Abuja. This election is a Federal Government election, so anybody arrested will be taken to Abuja. That’s the order.