The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, on Friday met with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and other key stakeholders in Osogbo as part of efforts to prevent political violence ahead of the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15.
The meeting, held at the Government House, comes amid heightened political activities and concerns over possible violence ahead of the off-cycle poll.
The IGP was accompanied by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 7, AIG Fasuba Olabode, and other senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
As part of his visit, Disu is also expected to engage officers and personnel of the Osun State Police Command, as well as traditional rulers, to strengthen collaboration aimed at ensuring a peaceful, free and credible election.
Addressing stakeholders, the Inspector-General urged residents to shun political violence, warning that the police would take firm action against anyone found disrupting public peace before, during or after the election.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from allowing themselves to be used as political thugs, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force would not tolerate any form of electoral violence.
In his remarks, Governor Adeleke called on the police to remain professional, impartial and politically neutral throughout the electoral process.
In a post on his Instagram page after the meeting, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for violence, thuggery and all forms of electoral malpractice.
He said anyone found culpable, irrespective of political affiliation or social status, should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Adeleke also expressed confidence in the Inspector-General’s assurance that the election would be peaceful, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to guarantee a free, fair and credible poll.
The Osun governorship election will be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on August 15 after it was shifted from its initial August 8 date to allow for improved logistical preparations.
According to INEC, Osun State has 1,954,800 registered voters, of whom 1,594,006 have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), while 360,794 PVCs remain unclaimed. The commission has reiterated that only voters with valid PVCs will be eligible to participate in the election.
INEC also reminded political parties and the media that election campaigns must end 24 hours before polling day, while journalists and media organisations covering the exercise must complete the accreditation process before the stipulated deadline.
