The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has barred the Amotekun Corps and other non-state security groups from participating in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The Force, in a statement ahead of the election, 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 police during the election.
It warned that no non-state security group, vigilante organisation or other unauthorised body is permitted to assume or exercise the functions of a recognised security agency.
The police consequently directed such groups to stay away from election-related security operations and refrain from activities capable of intimidating voters, disrupting the electoral process or undermining public peace and security.
The Force also announced a restriction of movement across Osun State as part of measures to ensure a peaceful, secure and orderly conduct of the election.
According to the police, the restriction will commence at 12:00 midnight on Friday, August 14, 2026, and remain in force until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Members of the public were urged to comply fully with the restriction and cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state.
The police said only persons and categories of movement specifically exempted by the appropriate authorities would be permitted during the period.
Political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders were also advised to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly and avoid any action capable of causing violence or disrupting the electoral process.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors and eligible voters throughout the electoral process.
It urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative, while encouraging members of the public to promptly report suspicious or unlawful activities to constitutionally and legally recognised security agencies.
