The Nigeria Police Force has barred the Amotekun Corps and other non-state security groups from taking part in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, stressing that election security duties would be handled only by security agencies established and recognised by the Constitution and laws of Nigeria.
The police warned vigilante groups, non-state security organisations and other unauthorised bodies against performing functions reserved for recognised law-enforcement agencies during the election.
According to the Force, such groups are expected to stay away from election-related security activities and avoid any conduct that could intimidate voters, interfere with the electoral process or threaten public peace.
The police also announced a statewide restriction of movement as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly election.
The restriction will begin at midnight on Friday, August 14, and remain in effect until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, with exemptions applying only to categories of persons and movements approved by the relevant authorities.
Political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders were urged to avoid provocative acts and conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electoral process.
The Force said its personnel and other authorised security agencies would remain deployed across the state to maintain law and order and provide a secure environment for voters and electoral officials.
It urged residents to comply with the movement restriction, cooperate with security personnel and report suspicious activities to recognised security agencies.
The police further assured the public of their commitment to protecting the electoral process and maintaining a peaceful environment for all eligible voters and political actors.
