IGP Deploys Election Commissioner to Osun Ahead of Governorship Poll

By Dorcas Francis Koji

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has deployed Commissioner of Police Erale Samuel Etaifo to Osun State to coordinate security operations ahead of the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15.

The deployment was announced in a statement issued on Friday by the spokesperson of the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, who said the move reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process.

According to the statement, Etaifo will oversee the state’s security architecture throughout the election period, working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the poll.

The police said the deployment is aimed at guaranteeing a secure environment for voters, election officials, accredited observers, media personnel and residents before, during and after the election.

Ojelabi stated that the Commissioner of Police would coordinate all election security operations in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, the Code of Conduct for Security Personnel on Electoral Duty and other relevant laws governing elections in Nigeria.

“The Inspector-General of Police has deployed CP Erale Samuel Etaifo to Osun State to oversee security arrangements for the forthcoming governorship election, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to neutrality, professionalism and the conduct of free, fair and credible elections,” the statement said.

The command also assured residents that adequate security measures have been put in place across the state to protect lives, property and sensitive electoral materials throughout the electoral process.

It added that all personnel assigned to election duties had been instructed to remain impartial, professional and respectful of the rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

The police further warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against engaging in acts capable of disrupting public order.

According to the command, electoral violence, vote buying, voter intimidation, the spread of false information and other election-related offences will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Residents were urged to cooperate with security agencies, remain peaceful and promptly report suspicious activities through the command’s designated emergency communication channels.

Osun State voters are expected to elect a governor on Saturday, August 15, in a contest involving 14 candidates, including the incumbent governor.