Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has deployed CP Erale Samuel Etaifo to Osun State to oversee the security architecture for the August 15 governorship election in the state.
A statement made available to journalists in Osogbo by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the deployment was in line with the IGP’s unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections.
“The deployment underscores the resolve of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and secure atmosphere while guaranteeing the safety of voters, electoral officials, election observers, media practitioners, and all law-abiding residents of the state.
“CP Erale Samuel Etaifo will coordinate election security operations in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with the Electoral Act, the Code of Conduct for Security Personnel on Electoral Duty, and all extant laws guiding the electoral process.
“The Osun State Police Command assures members of the public that adequate security measures have been put in place across the state to protect lives, property, and critical electoral materials before, during, and after the election.”
Ojelabi said all officers and personnel deployed for election duty had been directed to remain impartial, professional, and respectful of the rights of every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation.
The Osun State Police Command warned political actors, their supporters, and other stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully and refrain from acts capable of undermining public order.
“Electoral violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, the spread of misinformation, and any other form of criminality will be met with the full weight of the law. The Command urges residents to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency channels.”
He noted that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to providing a level playing field for all political parties and ensuring that the will of the people prevails through a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process.
