The Nigeria Police Force has announced that the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, alongside vigilante groups and other unauthorised security outfits, will not be permitted to participate in security operations during the 2026 Osun State governorship election.
The directive was issued by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone XI and conveyed in a statement released on Wednesday by the zone’s Public Relations Officer, SP Ojedele Olanrewaju.
According to the statement, only constitutionally recognised security agencies will be responsible for providing security before, during and after the governorship election.
The police said the decision is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, credible and orderly electoral process.
“As part of efforts to maintain law and order throughout the election period, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other constitutionally recognised security agencies, will be solely responsible for the provision of security before, during and after the election,” the statement read.
The command further directed that all security personnel deployed for election duties must wear their approved official uniforms and carry proper identification at all times.
The AIG emphasised that Amotekun, vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch organisations, political groups and other quasi-security outfits have no constitutional role in election security.
“Only constitutionally recognised security agencies are authorised to participate in election security operations. Amotekun, vigilante groups, quasi-security outfits, political organisations, neighbourhood watch groups or any other unauthorised body are not eligible to perform security functions, provide crowd control or interfere with the electoral process,” the statement added.
The police warned that any individual or group found carrying out unauthorised security duties or attempting to intimidate voters, electoral officials or other stakeholders would face legal action.
The command also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and comply with all electoral laws.
Residents of Osun State were encouraged to report suspicious movements, acts of violence, voter intimidation or any breach of the peace to the nearest police station or any other authorised security agency.
Reaffirming its commitment to a peaceful election, the police stated that Zone XI Headquarters remains dedicated to protecting lives and property, safeguarding the electoral process and ensuring that eligible voters can exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.
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