The Nigeria Police Force has barred the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, vigilante groups and other non-state security outfits from participating in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The Force warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against engaging, arming or deploying such groups for election-related activities.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
The police said Amotekun, vigilante groups, hunters’ associations, community-based security groups, neighbourhood watch outfits, the Joint Civilian Task Force and other non-state security formations were not authorised to escort electoral materials, guard polling units, mount checkpoints or carry arms during the election.
The Force warned that anyone who sponsors or deploys unauthorised security outfits for the election would be arrested and prosecuted.
The police also cautioned political parties, candidates and their supporters against violence, intimidation, thuggery, ballot snatching, vote buying and clashes between rival supporters.
According to the Force, election security will be handled by constitutionally recognised security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Immigration Service, Correctional Service and Federal Road Safety Corps.
The joint security operation, it said, would cover all 30 local government areas of the state, with personnel deployed to protect polling units, collation centres, electoral materials, officials, observers, journalists and voters.
The police further warned that firearms and dangerous weapons would not be allowed around polling units and collation centres, except those lawfully carried by accredited security personnel on election duty.
The IGP directed officers deployed for the poll to remain professional, impartial and firm while respecting the rule of law and the rights of voters.
The Force also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, journalists and accredited observers to report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.
It assured residents and other stakeholders that it would remain neutral and provide a secure environment for eligible voters to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.