The Nigeria Police Force has deployed a dedicated Commissioner of Police to oversee security operations for the August 15 governorship election in Osun State as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
The newly deployed officer, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, will serve as the Commissioner of Police (Elections) and coordinate all election-related security operations across the state, while the substantive Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, will continue to oversee routine policing and other non-election duties.
The deployment was announced in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, who said the Inspector-General of Police approved the appointment to strengthen the security architecture ahead of the governorship poll.
According to the statement, CP Etaifo has been directed to work closely with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard voters, election officials and sensitive election materials throughout the electoral process.
The police said the arrangement is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency by separating election security management from the day-to-day responsibilities of the state command.
Meanwhile, CP Ibrahim Gotan will remain in charge of the Osun State Police Command, providing administrative and operational support to ensure seamless coordination during the election period.
The Inspector-General of Police also appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns and other election-related activities peacefully, warning against acts capable of disrupting the electoral process.
He further reassured residents of Osun State of the Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order before, during and after the governorship election, urging members of the public to promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
