Osun 2026: Police Draw Red Line for Amotekun, Restrict Movement for Governorship Poll
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigeria Police Force has drawn a fresh security line ahead of the Osun State governorship election, warning Amotekun and other non-state security groups to stay away from election-related operations while imposing a statewide restriction on movement from midnight on Friday, August 14, to 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The position was contained in a statement signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, ANIPR, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, and dated August 14, 2026.
The Force said only security agencies established and recognised by the Constitution and laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties in connection with the election.
According to the Police, no non-state security group, vigilante organisation or other unauthorised body is permitted to assume the functions of recognised security agencies during the electoral process.
The Police therefore directed such groups to stay away from election-related security operations and avoid activities capable of intimidating voters, disrupting the electoral process or undermining public peace.
Movement restricted across Osun
As part of the security measures for the election, the Police announced that movement across the state would be restricted from 12:00 midnight on Friday, August 14, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The Force urged residents to comply with the restriction and cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state.
It noted that only persons and categories of movement specifically exempted by the appropriate authorities would be allowed to move during the restricted period.
The Police also called on political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the electoral process.
It warned against any action capable of triggering violence, voter intimidation or disruption of the election.
The Force said the measures were designed to guarantee a peaceful, secure and orderly election while providing a level playing field for all political actors and eligible voters.
Police warn against unauthorised security operations
The Police reiterated that the deployment of non-state actors for election security could create confusion over command, authority and accountability.
It consequently urged all unauthorised groups to refrain from security-related activities connected to the poll and leave law enforcement to constitutionally recognised security agencies.
The Force said:
“Only security agencies recognised and established under the Constitution and laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties alongside the Nigeria Police Force in connection with the election.”
The Police further appealed to members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative, particularly during the period of movement restriction.
Residents were also advised to promptly report suspicious or unlawful activities to constitutionally and legally recognised security agencies.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security before, during and after the Osun governorship election, stressing that the success of the electoral process would require the cooperation of political actors, voters, civil society and other stakeholders.
