The Nigeria Police Force has officially prohibited the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), alongside various local vigilantes, hunter associations, and neighborhood watch groups, from operating during the August 15, 2026, Osun State governorship election. According to Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu, these non-state security entities are strictly forbidden from participating in any election-related duties, such as guarding polling stations, escorting electoral materials, or managing checkpoints.
Authorities have emphasized that only recognized agencies—including the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Correctional Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps—are permitted to maintain order. These forces will be stationed across all 30 local government areas to ensure security at collation centers and polling units.
The police warned that any attempts to utilize, arm, or deploy unauthorized security personnel will result in immediate arrest and legal action. Furthermore, the command cautioned that illegal activities such as ballot box snatching, voter intimidation, and vote buying will be prosecuted regardless of a suspect’s political standing or affiliation.
