Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, the Nigeria Police Force has called on citizens to embrace their role as active partners in ensuring a peaceful, safe, and credible electoral process, with the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, emphasising that the responsibility for a successful election rests not only on security agencies but on every resident of the state. In a video message released on Friday, August 7, 2026, the police spokesman outlined the role of the Police and called on citizens to obey the law, maintain peace, and exercise their civic responsibilities responsibly.
CSP Iniedu stressed that the Nigeria Police Force has deployed comprehensive security measures to safeguard voters, election officials, and electoral materials across Osun State. As part of this strategy, Commissioner of Police Samuel Erale Etaifo has been deployed to the state as CP Elections to coordinate all election security operations, working in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. The police have also deployed thousands of officers and tactical teams to ensure order and respond swiftly to any security breaches.
The Force PRO, however, made it clear that the police alone cannot guarantee a peaceful election. He underscored the critical role of citizens in maintaining order, urging voters to conduct themselves peacefully, refrain from violence or intimidation, and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. "The success of this governorship election is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of security agencies, INEC, political parties, and the electorate," Iniedu said. He reminded political actors and their supporters that the police will not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the electoral process, and that anyone found engaging in electoral violence or malpractices will face the full weight of the law.
The call for citizen cooperation comes amid heightened political tensions in Osun State, where the police have confirmed 30 cases of alleged politically motivated killings ahead of the election. Iniedu had earlier disclosed that investigations were ongoing and that several suspects had been arrested and charged to court. He also assured the public that the police would not be part of any cover-up and would not shield any person involved in any crime.
As the election draws nearer, the police have urged all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and peaceful engagement rather than violence. The Force PRO advised citizens to avoid spreading misinformation and to rely on official communication from security agencies and INEC. He also encouraged residents to come out on election day to exercise their franchise without fear, assuring them that adequate security arrangements have been made to protect lives and property.
The message from the Force Public Relations Officer serves as a reminder that while the police are prepared to secure the electoral process, the cooperation and law-abiding conduct of every citizen will determine whether Osun State delivers a peaceful, credible, and democratic election. As one community leader put it, "No single tree makes a forest"—a peaceful election requires the collective effort of all.
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