Oyo Police Assure Residents of Security Ahead of LG Polls

The Oyo State Police Command has issued a strong assurance to the public regarding the security arrangements for the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for December 29, 2026. This commitment, articulated by the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, during a courtesy visit from the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), signals a robust preparedness to safeguard the electoral process.

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I want to assure the Chairman and his entourage of one hundred per cent support of the command in the forthcoming local government council elections.

Commissioner Olugbenga underscored the command's unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout the election period. He pledged the police's 'one hundred per cent support' to OYSIEC, emphasizing that peace is a prerequisite for conducting fair, free, and credible elections. The command's proactive stance aims to instill confidence in the electorate and demonstrate their capacity to manage security effectively, drawing parallels with past successes.

The visit from OYSIEC Chairman Afees Adeniyi served as a formal notification and an opportunity to strengthen the collaboration between the electoral body and the police. Adeniyi highlighted the public's concerns about safety during elections and stressed the importance of sustained police cooperation to foster a conducive environment for voting. He acknowledged the significant support received from the command in previous elections and expressed optimism for continued partnership.

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We have been doing this, and we will not stop because there is no way we can assure the voting populace, fair, free and credible elections without peace.

For the residents of Oyo State, this assurance from the police is paramount. While international news might cover elections globally, the local context of security is what directly impacts our ability to participate freely and without fear. The police's commitment here is not just about maintaining law and order; it's about upholding the democratic rights of every citizen. This collaboration between the police and OYSIEC is a critical element in ensuring that the December 29 elections are conducted peacefully and transparently, reflecting our state's dedication to democratic principles and voter confidence.

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We received tremendous support from this command in 2024, and we remain grateful. We look forward to further support and collaboration as we prepare for the forthcoming election.