Police Exclude Amotekun, Vigilantes From Osun Governorship Election Security

By Victor Idajil 

The Nigeria Police Force has barred Amotekun, vigilantes and other non-state security groups from participating in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.

Announcing the directive on Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu said the groups have “no role in election security.” The statement was issued on behalf of Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

Osun voters across the state’s 30 Local Government Areas will head to the polls on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

The police listed the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, vigilante groups, Joint Civilian Task Force, hunters’ associations, community-based security outfits, neighbourhood watch teams and similar formations among those prohibited. They will not be allowed to escort electoral materials, guard polling units, mount checkpoints or carry arms during the election.

“The Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), vigilante groups, the Joint Civilian Task Force (CJTF), hunters’ associations, community-based security groups, neighbourhood watch outfits, and all other non-state or quasi-security formations have no role in election security,” the statement said. 

The Force warned that any member or sponsor found involved in election duties will be arrested and prosecuted.

Election security, according to the police, will be handled only by constitutionally recognised agencies the Nigeria Police, DSS, NSCDC, Immigration Service, Correctional Service, FRSC and other statutory bodies. Their joint deployment will cover all 30 LGAs to protect polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, INEC officials, observers, journalists and voters.

The IGP also urged political parties, candidates and the public to keep the poll peaceful. He said the police would not tolerate ballot snatching, voter intimidation, vote buying and clashes between supporters. 

“Any person involved in such offences, whether as a direct perpetrator or sponsor, will be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation or status,” the statement read.

The police reiterated the ban on firearms and dangerous weapons around polling units and collation centres, except for those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel. Other prohibited acts include thuggery, obstruction of electoral officials, unlawful possession of election materials, hate speech and incitement.

Disu directed all deployed officers to act professionally, impartially and in line with human rights standards. The Force also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society, the media and observers to report suspicious activities. 

“If you see something, say something,” the statement urged.

The police assured residents, INEC, political parties and other stakeholders of adequate security, adding that it “remains neutral, professional, and resolute, and will not allow any actor to undermine the peaceful conduct of the Osun State Governorship Election.”