Osun Governorship Election: Police Unveil Comprehensive Security Plan

As the Osun State governorship election approaches, the Nigeria Police Force has reassured residents of the state of its commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful electoral process. The Force Public Relations Officer, Okokon Iniedu, made this known on Friday at the Osun State Police Command headquarters in Osogbo. Iniedu stated that the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has given a directive to ensure that the election is conducted in a secure and credible manner, with the protection of lives and property being a top priority. The police spokesperson also warned against vote-buying, describing it as an electoral malpractice that would not be tolerated. Iniedu stated that the police would decisively treat electoral offences, adding that anyone caught engaging in vote-buying would be arrested and prosecuted immediately. The police have deployed helicopters, drones, and Mobile Police personnel across the state to ensure adequate security. Aerial surveillance has commenced, and personnel have been deployed to polling units, INEC offices, and other strategic locations. Iniedu explained that the police have deployed one unit of the Police Mobile Force across all local government areas, with two units of combat-ready armed MOPOL personnel assigned to the Independent National Electoral Commission. Additionally, seven units of Special Protection Unit personnel will be responsible for the movement of sensitive and non-sensitive INEC materials, as well as the protection of electoral officers. The police have also conducted security threat assessments across all 30 local government areas and deployed personnel based on identified risks. Covert operatives will also be deployed to gather intelligence and respond to emerging threats. The state will be placed under a movement restriction from midnight on Friday as part of measures to secure the election. Iniedu emphasized that the police are on top of the situation and have everything under control, urging citizens to remain calm and go out to exercise their franchise on Saturday.